Using mouse genetic diversity to learn why genomes become unstable
Population genomics in laboratory and outbred mouse populations
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · JACKSON LABORATORY · NIH-11248780
Researchers are mapping hard-to-read parts of mouse DNA to reveal how genetic changes lead to genome instability that can contribute to cancer and fertility problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JACKSON LABORATORY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BAR HARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11248780 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This work uses genetically diverse laboratory and wild mice plus advanced long-read DNA sequencing to build complete genome maps, especially in repeat-rich regions like centromeres and the Y chromosome. By comparing many mouse genomes and archived wild samples, scientists aim to discover how mutation, recombination, and natural selection shape spots in the genome that are prone to errors. The project links these basic discoveries to processes important for chromosome segregation, genome stability, and fertility, which are relevant to some cancers. Results may point to biological mechanisms that explain why certain DNA regions become unstable across generations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers tied to chromosome instability or those with unexplained fertility issues are most likely to find this work relevant to future clinical advances.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to genome instability (for example, purely infectious or metabolic diseases) are unlikely to see direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could identify fundamental mechanisms behind chromosome instability that inform future diagnostic markers or therapies for cancers and fertility disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Long-read sequencing and comparative mouse genetics have produced important insights before, but applying these tools to highly repetitive centromeres and the Y chromosome is relatively new and technically challenging.
Where this research is happening
BAR HARBOR, UNITED STATES
- JACKSON LABORATORY — BAR HARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DUMONT, BETHANY L — JACKSON LABORATORY
- Study coordinator: DUMONT, BETHANY L
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.
Conditions: Cancers