Understanding how telomeres are maintained and protected in human cells
Official title: Mechanisms regulating telomere length, protection and replication
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11011190 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help keep the ends of our DNA, called telomeres, healthy and stable, which is important for preventing issues like aging and cancer, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding how our cells stay strong and protected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | January 21, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $404,792 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156405-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011190 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to aging or cancer, particularly those with known telomere dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to telomere biology or those who do not have any genetic predisposition to telomere-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that regulate telomere length and protection, which are crucial for maintaining genome stability. It focuses on how specific proteins, including the POT1 protein, coordinate the synthesis of telomere DNA strands and protect telomeres from being mistaken for DNA damage. Using advanced techniques like CRISPR and biochemical assays, the research aims to uncover the interactions and processes that ensure telomeres function properly in human cells. This could lead to insights into aging and cancer, as telomere dysfunction is linked to these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing age-related diseases and certain cancers by targeting telomere maintenance mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding telomere biology, indicating that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chang, Sandy S — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Chang, Sandy S
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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.