Federal Grant Award Summary

Cleveland State University received a $552,763 Project Grant award from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) under the Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases Extramural Research program (CFDA 93.847). The award, effective February 15, 2026, through January 31, 2029, funds investigator-initiated research examining the role of the STAG1 protein component of the cohesin complex during terminal erythropoiesis—the final stages of red blood cell development and hemoglobin synthesis.

The research aims to advance understanding of transcriptional mechanisms governing globin gene expression, with direct application to treating hematological diseases including thalassemias and anemias classified as major global health problems. The project consists of three primary research objectives: determining domain requirements of STAG1 in transcriptional regulation; investigating consequences of acute STAG1 depletion on globin gene expression; and examining whether STAG1 impacts globin promoter-enhancer interactions. Findings from this basic research initiative are anticipated to bridge fundamental molecular understanding with development of novel therapeutic interventions for ineffective erythropoiesis and related blood disorders.