Understanding how stem cells divide to create different cell types
Official title: Mechanism and Regulation of Replication-Coupled Asymmetric Histone Incorporation in Drosophila Male Germline Stem Cells
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10998053 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how special cells in fruit flies divide to create one new stem cell and one cell that will change into a different type of cell, focusing on the role of proteins that help organize DNA, which could help us understand how similar processes work in human stem cells and their impact on health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HD116510-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998053 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for potential benefit from this research would be individuals with conditions related to stem cell dysfunction or cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to stem cell biology or cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which adult stem cells, specifically in the male germline of fruit flies, divide asymmetrically to produce one stem cell and one differentiating cell. It focuses on the role of histones, which are proteins that help package DNA, in determining the fate of these cells during their division. By examining how old and new histones are distributed during DNA replication, the study aims to uncover the epigenetic factors that influence cell differentiation. This could provide insights into how similar processes might occur in human stem cells and their implications for health and disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of stem cell behavior and lead to advancements in regenerative medicine and cancer treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding stem cell differentiation and epigenetic regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davis, Brendon Eugene Michael — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Davis, Brendon Eugene Michael
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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.