Enzymes that cause DNA mutations and drive cancer growth
PROJECT 1 – STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY OF DNA DEAMINASES IN CANCER
This work looks at how blocking APOBEC3 enzymes that cause DNA mutations might slow tumor changes in people with cancers driven by these enzymes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11198648 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use high-resolution structural biology to see exactly how APOBEC3A and APOBEC3B proteins bind to small drug-like molecules, short DNA pieces, and larger protein partners. They will follow up hits from molecule screens and fragment studies to map where and how these antagonists attach to the enzymes. Lab tests and biochemical assays will show whether these binders block the enzymes or mark them for destruction, and cell and animal models will be used to study effects on mutation rates. The aim is to create clear templates that medicinal chemists can use to develop drugs that reduce mutation-driven tumor evolution.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People whose tumors show APOBEC-related mutation patterns or who have cancers that evolve resistance during treatment would be the most relevant candidates for future therapies from this work.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not show APOBEC-driven mutations are unlikely to benefit from interventions targeting these enzymes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to therapies that reduce mutation-driven therapy resistance and slow cancer progression.
How similar studies have performed: Laboratory studies have identified initial inhibitors and fragment binders but translating these into proven drugs for patients remains novel and unproven.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aihara, Hideki — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Aihara, Hideki
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.