Understanding how proteins control gene expression
Official title: Defining the protein sequence features that control transcriptional activation domain function
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-10890714 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help turn genes on and off, using special lab techniques to see how changes in these proteins can affect their shape and function, which could help us better understand how genes work in our bodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $387,736 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150813-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10890714 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic disorders or diseases linked to gene expression abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to gene expression or those not affected by genetic factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the specific protein sequences that influence how transcription factors activate gene expression. By using advanced techniques such as high-throughput assays in yeast and human cell cultures, the team will design mutations to test their hypotheses about protein function. Additionally, they will employ biophysical simulations and machine learning to analyze how these mutations affect the 3D structures of proteins. The goal is to enhance our understanding of gene regulation, which could lead to better predictions of gene expression from genetic sequences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for predicting gene expression, which may enhance the development of targeted therapies for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding gene regulation through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Staller, Max Valentin — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Staller, Max Valentin
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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.