Understanding how telomerase is regulated in human cells
Official title: Regulation of human telomerase
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-11049151 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special enzyme called telomerase, which helps keep our cells healthy as we age, is controlled by a gene, and it aims to understand how this process might be linked to aging and cancer, so we can find better ways to support health in these areas.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $382,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM149529-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049151 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing age-related diseases or those at risk for cancers associated with telomerase dysregulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-age-related conditions or those not affected by cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that control telomerase, an enzyme crucial for maintaining telomere length during cell division. By focusing on the TERT gene, which encodes the human telomerase reverse transcriptase, the study aims to uncover how this gene is activated or repressed in different cell types, particularly in relation to aging and cancer. The research employs innovative techniques to explore the chromatin structure and regulatory sequences that influence telomerase expression, which could have implications for age-related diseases and cancer susceptibility.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating age-related diseases and cancers by targeting telomerase regulation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding telomerase regulation in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Jiyue — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Jiyue
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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.