Understanding how nucleotide metabolism affects telomere length in blood cell formation
Official title: Control of Telomere Homeostasis by Nucleotide Metabolism in Hematopoiesis
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11081714 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the way our bodies process certain building blocks of DNA affects the protective ends of our chromosomes, which is really important for keeping blood cells healthy, especially for people with blood disorders like aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DK135340-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11081714 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, or other telomere biology disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-hematological conditions unrelated to telomere biology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between nucleotide metabolism and telomere homeostasis, which is crucial for the health and replication of blood cells. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, the study aims to identify new pathways that control telomere length, particularly in patients with hematopoietic disorders such as aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndrome. The researchers will explore how manipulating nucleotide metabolism can influence telomere length, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that improve outcomes for patients with blood disorders linked to telomere dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in manipulating telomere length through genetic and biochemical approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mannherz, William — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Mannherz, William
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.