Understanding How Our Cells Control Hidden Genetic Elements
Epigenetic Mechanisms of Retrotransposon Silencing
This research explores how our cells keep certain ancient genetic elements, called retrotransposons, quiet to prevent problems like inflammation and mutations that can lead to diseases such as cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Van Andel Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11145749 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our DNA contains ancient genetic elements called retrotransposons, which make up a large part of our genetic code. When these elements become active, they can cause damage to cells, leading to mutations and inflammation, which are linked to many human diseases, including cancers. Our cells have special ways, called epigenetic mechanisms, to keep these retrotransposons silenced and prevent them from causing harm. This project aims to uncover the exact molecular steps our cells use to keep these elements quiet and what happens when these controls go wrong.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with cancers or other conditions where uncontrolled retrotransposon activity is a factor could eventually benefit from the knowledge gained from this fundamental research.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to retrotransposon activation or epigenetic dysregulation may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Successfully understanding these silencing mechanisms could open new avenues for developing treatments for cancers and other human diseases where retrotransposon activation plays a role.
How similar studies have performed: While the importance of retrotransposon silencing is known, very little is understood about the precise molecular mechanisms involved, making this a foundational and novel area of inquiry.
Where this research is happening
Grand Rapids, United States
- Van Andel Research Institute — Grand Rapids, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Worden, Evan J — Van Andel Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Worden, Evan J
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 below.