# Investigate the function of NDF in chromatin dynamics and gene expression

> **NIH NIH R01** · RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. · 2024 · $329,700

## Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract
Our current understanding of chromatin transcription has been limited by our knowledge of the factors that are
involved in this process. In this regard, we have identified a novel nucleosome destabilization factor, termed
NDF, that can destabilize nucleosomes and facilitate transcription elongation through nucleosomes. In this
proposal, we will investigate the function of NDF in chromatin dynamics and RNA Polymerase II transcription
elongation using biochemistry, genomics, bioinformatics and structural biology approaches. In Specific Aim 1,
we will develop and employ new methods and strategies to study the molecular mechanism of NDF-mediated
nucleosome destabilization and RNA Polymerase II transcription. We will use ultra-high-resolution optical
tweezer as well as cryo-electron microscopy to characterize the dynamics of NDF-mediated nucleosome
destabilization. In Specific Aim 2, we will examine how NDF is recruited to the transcribed regions of active
genes in cells. We will assess whether other cellular factors, other than H3K36me3 histones, contribute to the
recruitment of NDF. In Specific Aim 3, we will determine how genes lacking NDF are transcribed, and
investigate protein factors that are related to NDF. The studies proposed here should significantly increase our
understanding of the mechanisms of Pol II transcription elongation through chromatin.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10754913
- **Project number:** 5R01GM145748-02
- **Recipient organization:** RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J.
- **Principal Investigator:** Jia Fei
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $329,700
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2022-12-15 → 2027-11-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10754913

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10754913, Investigate the function of NDF in chromatin dynamics and gene expression (5R01GM145748-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10754913. Licensed CC0.

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