Understanding how structural variations in cancer genomes affect gene regulation
Computational methods to identify neo-TADs and enhancer-hijacking in rearranged genomes
This study is looking at how changes in cancer genes can mess up the way our DNA is organized, which might help us find new ways to treat patients with certain types of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10817730 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how structural variations in cancer genomes, such as deletions and duplications, can disrupt the three-dimensional organization of the genome. By using advanced computational methods, the study aims to identify new chromatin domains, known as neo-TADs, and the phenomenon of enhancer-hijacking, where enhancers are improperly positioned near oncogenes. The research employs techniques like Hi-C to analyze chromatin interactions on a genome-wide scale, which could lead to a better understanding of gene regulation in cancer. This knowledge may ultimately help in developing targeted therapies for patients with specific genetic alterations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with various types of cancers that exhibit structural variations in their genomes.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve significant structural variations in their genomes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized cancer treatments by identifying new therapeutic targets based on genomic alterations.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of structural variations in cancer, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yue, Feng — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Yue, Feng
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 below.