Engineering cells to record their life events in DNA to study DNA damage
Diversity Supplement: Deep cell history tracking: engineering cells that write their detailed life stories into their DNA to study DNA damage
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · RICE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11014026
This study is working on a new way for cells to keep track of their own experiences, especially when they get damaged, so we can better understand how these changes affect them over time, which could help people with conditions related to DNA damage.
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-11014026 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new technology that allows cells to record their own history of cellular events, particularly those related to DNA damage. By genetically engineering cells to express a DNA recorder, researchers can track mutations that occur during these events without disrupting the cells' normal functions. This innovative approach enables the study of long-term effects of DNA damage in a living organism, providing insights that were previously unattainable. The project aims to enhance the capability of DNA recording to capture multiple cellular events simultaneously, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of cell behavior in various contexts.
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 conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding how cells respond to DNA damage, which is crucial for developing new cancer therapies.
How similar studies have performed: While DNA recording technology is relatively new, preliminary studies have shown promise in tracking cellular events, indicating potential for success in this novel 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