Understanding how tiny cell compartments control our genes
Probing and Perturbing Transcriptional Condensates with Multiscale Modeling and Deep Learning
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11065477
This work explores how small compartments inside our cells, called biomolecular condensates, help manage our genes and keep cells working properly.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11065477 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our cells contain tiny, self-assembling compartments that are crucial for their daily functions, including how genes are turned on and off. We want to understand how these compartments form, interact, and organize the genetic material within cells. Using advanced computer modeling and artificial intelligence, we are creating detailed simulations of these compartments and their interactions with our DNA. This approach helps us overcome challenges in observing these complex processes directly, allowing us to generate new ideas about how they work.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This basic science work does not directly involve patients, but future applications could benefit individuals with conditions related to cellular dysfunction or gene regulation.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical interventions would not find direct benefit from this foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this foundational understanding could eventually lead to new insights into diseases caused by problems with gene regulation and cell function.
How similar studies have performed: While recent studies highlight the importance of these cellular compartments, this project uses novel computational modeling and deep learning to address many unanswered questions about their complex behavior.
Where this research is happening
CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZHANG, BIN — MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: ZHANG, BIN
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.