Engineering cells to record their life events in DNA to study DNA damage
Deep cell history tracking: engineering cells that write their detailed life stories into their DNA to study DNA damage
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · RICE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10913635
This study is working on a new technology that helps cells keep a record of important events in their DNA, which could help us understand how cells react to damage over time, and it's aimed at researchers who want to learn more about cell behavior.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RICE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10913635 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel technology that allows cells to record their life events directly in their DNA. By genetically engineering cells to express a DNA recorder, researchers can track mutations that occur during cellular events without disrupting the cells' normal functions. This approach enables the study of how cells respond to DNA damage over time, particularly in living organisms. The goal is to create a more advanced DNA recorder that can capture multiple cellular events simultaneously, providing a comprehensive view of cell history and behavior in response to DNA damage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve significant DNA damage, such as certain types of cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with stable conditions that do not involve DNA damage or those who are not genetically predisposed to such issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment of conditions related to DNA damage, including various cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While DNA recording technology is relatively novel, preliminary studies have shown promise in tracking cellular events, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- RICE UNIVERSITY — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LOVELESS, THERESA BERENS — RICE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: LOVELESS, THERESA BERENS
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.
Conditions: Cancers