Understanding how the 3D structure of the genome affects gene activity over time

Engineering and Imaging 3D genome structure-function dynamics across time scales

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10906084

This study is exploring how the way our genes are folded in three-dimensional space affects how they work, which could help us find better treatments for conditions like cancer, using special tools to watch and change these gene structures in real-time.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10906084 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex folding of the mammalian genome and how its three-dimensional structure influences gene expression. By developing advanced tools to visualize and manipulate chromatin loops in real-time, the study aims to uncover the relationship between these loops and transcription dynamics across different time scales. Patients may benefit from insights gained about cellular processes that could lead to improved treatments for conditions like cancer. The research will utilize human induced pluripotent stem cells and other biological models to track changes in genome structure and function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include individuals with genetic conditions or cancers where gene expression plays a critical role.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to gene expression or chromatin dynamics may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding gene regulation, potentially improving cancer treatment and other therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding gene regulation through chromatin dynamics, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancer Treatment
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.