Understanding how mammals balance gene expression between sexes
Official title: Evolution of Mammalian Sex Chromosome Dosage Compensation
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10918738 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how male and female mammals balance the activity of their X chromosomes, focusing on a special RNA called Xist, and it uses mice to help us understand how this balance evolved, which could lead to new insights for health issues related to sex chromosomes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 11, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $896,013 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD118514-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10918738 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit are individuals with conditions related to sex chromosome dosage imbalances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without sex chromosome abnormalities or related genetic conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mammals equalize gene expression from X chromosomes in females and males. It focuses on the role of a specific RNA molecule called Xist and whether it is essential for this process. By using mouse models, the study aims to uncover the evolutionary origins of this gene expression balance and the factors involved. Patients may benefit from insights gained about genetic mechanisms that could impact various health conditions linked to sex chromosomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of genetic disorders related to sex chromosome abnormalities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding dosage compensation mechanisms in other species, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kalantry, Sundeep — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Kalantry, Sundeep
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.