Finding mutations in skin cancers caused by UV damage
Official title: Identifying recurrent driver mutations in skin cancers by targeted UV damage sequencing
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-10807058 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how UV light can change the DNA in skin cells and lead to skin cancers like melanoma, so we can better understand what really causes these cancers and how to fight them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | March 10, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $191,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R21ES035139-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10807058 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with skin cancers, particularly melanoma, who have a history of significant UV exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with skin cancers not related to UV exposure or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how ultraviolet (UV) light causes mutations in skin cancers, particularly melanoma. By using advanced sequencing techniques, the team aims to identify which mutations are actually driving cancer growth versus those that are simply a result of UV damage. The study focuses on mapping DNA damage in skin cells exposed to UV light, specifically looking at recurrent mutations found in critical areas of the genome. This approach could help clarify the role of UV exposure in skin cancer development and improve our understanding of these diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-targeted therapies for skin cancer by identifying true driver mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying mutations in other cancers using sequencing methods, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wyrick, John J — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Wyrick, John J
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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.