Understanding how RNA interacts with chromatin to influence cell development
Official title: Revealing the RNA foundations of chromatin-based epigenetics
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11045651 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how RNA works with DNA to help cells grow and change, using mouse stem cells and tiny creatures like ants and flies, to better understand how our bodies develop and heal.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $362,316 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM153281-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045651 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions related to cellular differentiation or developmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed and differentiated cells, such as those with stable chronic conditions unrelated to cellular differentiation, may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between RNA and chromatin, which are crucial for determining how cells develop and differentiate. By using advanced techniques in biochemistry and functional genomics, the study focuses on mouse embryonic stem cells and model organisms like ants and flies to explore epigenetic memory. The researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind RNA's role in regulating gene expression and cell fate transitions, which could lead to new insights in developmental biology and regenerative medicine.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and manipulating cell differentiation, which may benefit patients with regenerative medicine needs.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding RNA and chromatin interactions, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant advancements in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bonasio, Roberto — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Bonasio, Roberto
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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.