Understanding How Genes Are Packaged
Dynamics of DNA-histone interactions
This research explores how the way our genes are packaged affects their activity, which is important for understanding diseases like cancer and degenerative neurologic disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136443 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our genes are tightly packed inside our cells into structures called nucleosomes, which are like tiny spools of DNA wrapped around proteins called histones. This packaging plays a crucial role in controlling which genes are turned on or off, and mistakes in this process can lead to serious health problems, including developmental issues, cancers, and degenerative neurologic disorders. We are developing advanced single-molecule imaging techniques to see these interactions up close, helping us understand how changes in DNA and histones affect gene regulation. By observing these complex changes at a very detailed level, we aim to uncover the basic mechanisms that go wrong in disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but it aims to benefit individuals affected by diseases linked to gene regulation errors, such as certain cancers and degenerative neurologic disorders.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical interventions will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this fundamental understanding could pave the way for new diagnostic tools and treatments for conditions caused by errors in gene regulation, such as certain cancers and degenerative neurologic disorders.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon previous findings by the research team and focuses on developing advanced single-molecule methods to observe complex biological processes that are difficult to study with traditional tools.
Where this research is happening
University Park, United States
- Pennsylvania State University, the — University Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Tae-Hee — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Lee, Tae-Hee
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.