Creating artificial chromosomes to study DNA damage and cancer
Official title: Core 2: Mammalian Artificial Chromosome (MAC)
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11085259 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how DNA damage and mistakes in cell division can lead to cancer by using special artificial chromosomes that help scientists learn more about these processes without affecting the cells' normal DNA.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 8, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $365,108 |
| NIH project number | 5P01CA265794-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085259 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers that may involve chromosomal abnormalities or DNA damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-cancerous conditions or those without chromosomal abnormalities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing mammalian artificial chromosomes (MACs) to investigate how DNA damage and chromosome missegregation affect cells and contribute to tumor development. By creating and manipulating these artificial chromosomes, researchers aim to better understand the mechanisms behind these processes. The MACs can carry large genetic materials and operate independently within cells, allowing for precise studies without disrupting the host genome. This innovative approach will support various projects aimed at exploring the consequences of DNA damage and improving cancer biology knowledge.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into cancer mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using artificial chromosomes for genetic studies, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Black, Ben E. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Black, Ben E.
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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.