Understanding how genetic variations affect the 3D structure of the genome
Official title: Mapping heritable chromatin loop variants with allele-specific Hi-C analysis
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11012372 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the structure of our genes is organized in 3D and how differences in our DNA can affect this setup, which might help us understand why some people develop conditions like adult-onset diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | February 21, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $648,910 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HG012384-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012372 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of adult-onset diabetes or related metabolic conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any genetic predisposition to adult-onset diabetes or those with unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex 3D architecture of the mammalian genome and how genetic variations influence this structure. Using advanced techniques like Hi-C analysis, the study aims to create detailed maps of chromatin loops that connect important regulatory elements within the genome. By examining these relationships in specially bred mouse strains, researchers hope to uncover how genetic differences can lead to variations in gene expression and potentially impact health. This work could provide insights into the genetic basis of diseases such as adult-onset diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how genetic variations contribute to diseases, potentially informing new treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using similar Hi-C techniques have shown promise in mapping genome architecture, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jin, Fulai — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Jin, Fulai
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Estrogen signaling and how the intestinal lining protects against injury
A study at Case Western Reserve University looks at how estrogen receptors in the gut lining help protect against intestinal injury and inflammatory bowel disease.
-
Diabetes: Long-term effects of intensive glucose control on complications
A long-term study follows adults with type 1 diabetes to see how keeping blood sugar close to normal affects eye, kidney, nerve, heart, and quality of life outcomes over many years.
-
Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (EDIC) Study follow-up
This long-term study follows adults with type 1 diabetes to see how early intensive glucose control affects complications and quality of life over many years.
-
Role of THAP1 in brain cell support cells shaping brain development
Aims to understand how the THAP1 protein in oligodendrocyte lineage cells helps shape the brain’s environment and myelination during development, which may relate to a movement disorder called DYT6 dystonia.
-
New human monoclonal antibodies to stop malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax
A researcher team is developing human monoclonal antibodies to prevent and treat malaria from Plasmodium vivax, with a plan to test promising antibodies in primates and prepare for human trials.
-
PopCASE: A user-friendly tool to link cancer data for communities and researchers
Aimed at improving population cancer research, PopCASE helps connect patient cancer data with community information to inform better care and outreach.
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.