# Center for Live Cell Genomics

> **NIH NIH RM1** · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ · 2022 · $2,695,000

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
Center for Live Cell Genomics
We will build new methodology and capacity for large-scale, long-term, inexpensive, modular,
customizable, shared, Internet-of-Things-controlled, reproducible live cell culture and tissue-based
experimental genomics disease models. Tissue models include traditional cell culture as well as
organoid and primary tissue explants obtained from surgery or biopsy. Organoid factories supporting
tissue growth and maintenance will be integrated with external and on-chip electro-optofluidic analytical
modules to become part of an ecosystem that is modeled after open-source software. It will use
commodity sensors, cameras, and computers linked in platforms flexibly designed using simple 3D
printing, molding, etching and milling techniques potentially available at any institution. This will
stimulate rapid innovation in experimental platforms for tissue culture.
We will push this technology and use its best-in-class capabilities to make progress in
neurodevelopment and pediatric cancer, addressing big questions. What genes contribute most
importantly and specifically to human brain development? How do they go wrong in
neurodevelopmental disease or brain injury? What specific molecular pathways are disrupted in
individual pediatric cancer cases? How can we test pathway-specific treatments in a tissue model
specific to each patient?
Our education and outreach plans include a training program to develop a diverse and inclusive cohort
of undergraduate students trained in genomic science through secondary school and community
college outreach as well as coding workshops and research-based laboratory classes for UCSC
undergraduates to develop core competencies. Participation in these activities serve as a basis for
training graduate students and postdocs in inclusive pedagogy and mentorship. We are also developing
a one-stop information hub to form an online community and to share our technology through
immersive webinars and tutorials aimed at a broader audience with a range of expertise from the
general public to scientists and clinicians at research institutions.
Our work will enable significant advances in neuroscience and cancer research and education,
stimulate a new open-source culture in cell biology and genomics, and democratize scientific and
educational access beyond elite institutions, extending sharing projects like NHGRI ANvIL beyond data
and code to include experiments and Internet-connected experimental platforms.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10489340
- **Project number:** 5RM1HG011543-02
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ
- **Principal Investigator:** DAVID H HAUSSLER
- **Activity code:** RM1 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $2,695,000
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2021-09-15 → 2026-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10489340

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10489340, Center for Live Cell Genomics (5RM1HG011543-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10489340. Licensed CC0.

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