What tells our cells when to copy each part of DNA
The Genetic Basis of Human DNA Replication Timing
Researchers will map when different parts of human DNA are copied in cells and connect those timing patterns to genetic differences and gene activity to help explain risks for disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Buffalo, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11292396 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, scientists will build the largest map yet of when regions of the human genome are duplicated during cell division. They will obtain human samples and use lab assays plus computer analyses to measure replication timing across the genome. By comparing timing maps with each person’s genetic variants, gene activity, and epigenetic marks, they aim to identify the DNA signals that set replication timing. The team combines experimental data and computational linking to understand how timing changes may affect genome stability and disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with inherited genetic disorders, cancer patients, or healthy volunteers who can donate blood or tissue samples for research would be appropriate candidates to provide material for this work.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment advances are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic research, which aims to create knowledge for future clinical use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could show how errors in DNA copying timing contribute to genetic disease and cancer and point to new diagnostic markers or therapeutic targets.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies, including work from this lab, have successfully linked replication timing to genetic variation and gene regulation, though this project is larger and uses new computational approaches.
Where this research is happening
Buffalo, United States
- Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp — Buffalo, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koren, Amnon — Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp
- Study coordinator: Koren, Amnon
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.