# Epigenetic regulation of chromatin by the Keap1-Nrf2 xenobiotic response signaling in Drosophila

> **NIH NIH R15** · UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA DULUTH · 2024 · $99,958

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
 We are applying for an NIH Supplement fund to support our current R15 grant, focusing
on the epigenetic regulation of chromatin by the Keap1-Nrf2 xenobiotic response signaling
pathway in Drosophila. The purpose of this application is to acquire a fluorescence microscope.
 The Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway is essential for oxidative and xenobiotic responses
and is related to many diseases especially cancer. To understand the impact of environmental
toxins on development and health at the molecular level, my laboratory investigates the
molecular mechanisms and biological functions of the Keap1-Nrf2 oxidative and xenobiotic
response pathway in Drosophila. Supported by the current R15 fund, we aim to characterize the
molecular and biological interactions between dKeap1/CncC and chromatin remodeling
proteins, including lamin, actin, NURF, and JIL-1. Additionally, we plan to identify developmental
genes directly targeted and regulated by dKeap1 in a redox-independent manner. Furthermore,
we will study the formation and function of dKeap1-induced condensates. Finally, we will test the
hypothesis that dKeap1 and/or CncC mediate developmental adaptations to xenobiotic stimuli
through epigenetic regulation of chromatin architecture. This research is also expected to
enhance undergraduate education in both the classroom and laboratory settings.
All these research plans involve numerous fluorescence imaging assays, such as
immunostaining and live imaging. Therefore, an advanced fluorescence microscope is essential
for the ongoing projects in our lab. Unfortunately, the only fluorescence microscope shared by
our department is outdated and dysfunctional. Currently, we are utilizing a campus-shared
microscope located in a different building. Our lab urgently requires a fluorescence microscope
that is easily accessible. Additionally, the acquisition of this equipment will significantly enhance
the research capabilities of other faculty members within the Biology Department at the
University of Minnesota Duluth.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11037352
- **Project number:** 3R15GM128143-02S1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA DULUTH
- **Principal Investigator:** Huai Deng
- **Activity code:** R15 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $99,958
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2018-05-01 → 2026-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11037352

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11037352, Epigenetic regulation of chromatin by the Keap1-Nrf2 xenobiotic response signaling in Drosophila (3R15GM128143-02S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-21 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11037352. Licensed CC0.

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