Understanding how the 3D structure of DNA affects gene regulation and cancer.
Official title: Mechanistic Studies of Genome Folding
Funded at Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr · NIH-11121922 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called cohesin helps shape our DNA into 3D structures that control how genes work, which could help us understand how problems with these structures might lead to cancer and other genetic issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $470,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM154879-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11121922 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic predispositions to cancer or those diagnosed with cancers related to chromatin structure abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers not associated with chromatin structure or those without genetic mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the cohesin complex in forming 3D structures of the genome, which are crucial for regulating gene interactions. By studying how cohesin extrudes chromatin loops, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind genome folding and its implications for diseases like cancer. The approach involves advanced techniques to analyze the biochemical states of cohesin and its interactions with chromatin in a controlled environment. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how disruptions in these structures can lead to cancer and other genetic disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for understanding and potentially treating cancers linked to genetic mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genome structure and its implications for disease, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Yu — Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Liu, Yu
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.