Understanding how genetic changes shape human traits across different groups
Official title: The cis-regulatory basis of lineage-specific phenotypes among human groups
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10828121 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic differences in parts of our DNA that don't code for proteins might help explain what makes modern humans unique compared to our ancient relatives, Neanderthals and Denisovans, and it's for anyone curious about how our genes shape who we are today.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $46,933 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HG013464-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10828121 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals interested in genetic studies, particularly those with ancestral ties to populations that may have diverged significantly from Neanderthals and Denisovans.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who may not receive benefit from this research include those without a strong interest in genetic ancestry or those whose traits are not influenced by the genetic variations being studied.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic variations in noncoding regions of the genome that influence the physical and biological traits of modern humans compared to our closest relatives, Neanderthals and Denisovans. By focusing on specific genetic elements known as cis-regulatory elements, the study aims to uncover how these variations affect gene regulation and contribute to unique human characteristics. The approach involves analyzing high-coverage genomes from archaic humans and comparing them with modern human genetic data to identify significant differences. This research could provide insights into the evolutionary processes that have shaped human diversity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of human evolution and the genetic basis of traits that differentiate modern humans from archaic relatives.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using genetic analysis to understand human evolution, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Easterlin, Ryder — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Easterlin, Ryder
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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.