Understanding how genetic variations in human L1 retrotransposons affect health.
Official title: Leveraging natural and directed evolution to dissect the functional consequences of sequence variation in human L1 retrotransposons
Funded at Pacific Northwest Research Institute · NIH-10861796 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain pieces of DNA, called L1 retrotransposons, can change and move around in our genes, and how this might affect our health and the stability of our DNA, which could help people understand genetic diseases better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pacific Northwest Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $460,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM142773-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10861796 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with genetic diseases or conditions related to genome instability.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no genetic predisposition to diseases related to transposable elements may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of L1 retrotransposons, which are segments of DNA that can replicate and insert themselves into new locations in the genome. By examining how variations in these elements influence their ability to evade the body's defense mechanisms, the study aims to uncover the implications for genetic diseases and genome stability. The research employs a combination of retrospective genomic analyses and prospective experimental approaches to explore these dynamics. Patients may benefit from insights into how these genetic factors contribute to various health conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of genetic diseases and potential new strategies for treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of transposable elements in genetic diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
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Pacific Northwest Research Institute
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mclaughlin, Richard Noel — Pacific Northwest Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Mclaughlin, Richard Noel
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.