Understanding how our genes fold and turn on or off

Investigating the role of genome folding in transcriptional regulation

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11097312

This work explores how the way our DNA is folded inside cells affects which genes are active, which is important for understanding diseases like cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11097312 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Our bodies' cells rely on DNA folding to bring distant parts of our genes closer together, allowing them to communicate and turn on or off correctly. When this folding process goes wrong, it can contribute to many human diseases, including certain cancers. This project uses new tools to precisely control how DNA folds in cells, helping us understand the exact connections between DNA folding and gene activity. By learning these fundamental mechanisms, we hope to uncover why some gene changes lead to disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit those with cancers and other diseases linked to abnormal gene folding in the long term.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not receive direct benefit from this basic science project.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of how gene regulation goes awry in diseases like cancer, potentially leading to new ways to target these processes in the future.

How similar studies have performed: While the general area of genome folding has been studied for decades, this project uses novel tools to investigate the causal links between DNA folding and gene activity.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.