Blocking a DNA-repair helper (Rev1) to treat aggressive prostate cancer
Inhibiting Rev1-mediated translesion DNA synthesis for cancer therapy
['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11232354
Researchers are developing drugs that block a DNA-repair helper called Rev1 to stop aggressive prostate cancers, especially in men with BRCA mutations or hormonal-therapy resistance.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11232354 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project focuses on stopping a DNA-damage tolerance pathway driven by the protein Rev1 that helps prostate cancer cells survive treatment. Scientists will use structural biology and lab models to design molecules that disrupt Rev1's interactions with other DNA-repair proteins. The work includes testing these molecules in cell and animal models of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, particularly tumors with BRCA1/2-related repair defects or those made BRCA-like by hormonal therapy. If promising, the research could lead to early-phase clinical testing or combination approaches with existing drugs like PARP inhibitors or hormonal agents.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Men with advanced or metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, especially those with BRCA1/2 mutations or tumors that no longer respond to hormonal therapies, would be the most relevant candidates for related trials.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage prostate cancer, tumors without BRCA/HRR changes, or unrelated health conditions are unlikely to benefit from this approach in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could produce new therapies that make treatment-resistant prostate cancers more treatable and prolong patient survival.
How similar studies have performed: Targeting DNA repair in BRCA-mutant cancers has worked clinically using PARP inhibitors, but directly blocking TLS through Rev1 is a newer, mostly preclinical approach with promising lab results yet to be tested in patients.
Where this research is happening
DURHAM, UNITED STATES
- DUKE UNIVERSITY — DURHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HONG, JIYONG — DUKE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: HONG, JIYONG
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.