Understanding how genome folding affects gene activity

Investigating the role of genome folding in transcriptional regulation

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10874480

This study is looking at how the way DNA is folded in our cells affects how genes work, focusing on a special protein that helps shape this DNA, and it's aimed at helping us understand how these changes can lead to health issues like cancer and developmental disorders.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10874480 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the folding of DNA within the cell nucleus influences the regulation of gene activity. By focusing on the role of a protein complex called cohesin, which helps form loops in the DNA, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that link DNA structure to gene expression. Researchers will use advanced tools to manipulate these processes in mouse embryonic stem cells, providing insights into how changes in genome folding can lead to diseases like cancer and developmental disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic mutations linked to developmental disorders or certain types of cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to chromatin architecture or transcription regulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases caused by mutations in genome folding.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of chromatin structure in gene regulation, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.