Understanding how stem cells become specialized cells through gene regulation.
Official title: Programmable depletion and rescue platform to screen dynamic regulatory events during cellular differentiation.
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10910543 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stem cells turn into different types of cells by understanding how genes are controlled, and it aims to create a new tool to track and adjust the process of gene activity, which could help us learn more about how cells develop.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,463,997 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2HD118273-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10910543 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with conditions that could benefit from advancements in stem cell therapies or regenerative medicine.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to stem cell differentiation or those not seeking regenerative therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the intricate processes that allow stem cells to differentiate into specialized cells by focusing on the regulation of gene expression. It aims to develop a novel platform that can precisely monitor and manipulate mRNA degradation during the differentiation process, which has been a poorly understood aspect of cellular development. By utilizing advanced technologies, the research will explore how specific RNA degradation complexes influence gene expression at critical moments, providing insights into the dynamic nature of cell differentiation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for manipulating stem cell differentiation, potentially enhancing regenerative medicine and treatment for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the exploration of mRNA degradation in differentiation is a relatively novel approach, previous studies have shown success in understanding gene regulation during cellular processes, indicating potential for impactful findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zaccara, Sara — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Zaccara, Sara
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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.