Using light to discover new drugs that target gene regulation
Official title: Photoproximity labeling as a tool for epigenetic drug discovery
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11075373 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to create drugs that can help control how genes work by using special light-activated tools, which could lead to better treatments for diseases caused by changes in gene regulation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $483,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150765-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11075373 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to epigenetic dysregulation, such as certain cancers or genetic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions not associated with epigenetic changes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative methods to identify and design drugs that can effectively target the regulation of gene expression through epigenetic modifications. By utilizing advanced techniques that involve light-activated catalysts, the researchers aim to understand how small molecules can influence the chromatin environment over time. This approach seeks to characterize the interactions between drug candidates and their protein targets, which is crucial for developing effective therapies for diseases linked to epigenetic changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective epigenetic drugs that improve treatment options for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using light-activated methods in drug discovery is innovative, similar research has shown promise in targeting epigenetic modifications, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seath, Ciaran — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Seath, Ciaran
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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.