Exploring how DNA modifications affect telomeres in cancer cells
Official title: Understanding the impact of DNA ADP-ribosylation on telomere function in cancer cells
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10893378 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific change in DNA affects the protective ends of chromosomes, called telomeres, which help cancer cells live longer, and it hopes to find new ways to treat cancers that rely on this process, especially for patients with certain types of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30CA278287-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10893378 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that rely on Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT) for their growth and survival.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose cancers do not utilize the ALT mechanism may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of DNA ADP-ribosylation in the functioning of telomeres, which are crucial for the longevity of cancer cells. By understanding how this modification impacts telomere maintenance, the study aims to identify new therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. The approach involves disrupting specific enzymes that regulate ADP-ribosylation, potentially leading to improved cancer therapies. Patients with cancers that utilize Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT) may particularly benefit from these insights.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for certain types of cancer by targeting telomere maintenance mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting ADP-ribosylation for cancer therapy, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wondisford, Anne — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Wondisford, Anne
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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.