Finding proteins that help cells repair damaged DNA
Identifying chromatin factors essential for DNA repair using a novel high-throughput screening methodology
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS · NIH-11303435
Using a new lab screening method, this project searches for proteins that help human cells fix DNA damage to guide better ways to prevent or treat cancer and age-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11303435 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Scientists will use a new high-throughput screening approach and a large library of chromatin-related genes (a “ChromORFeome”) to find proteins that are important for repairing DNA damage in mammalian cells. They will focus on one protein, ZNF280A, and study how it changes after DNA damage using protein chemistry, phospho-proteomics, and targeted mutagenesis. The work is done in cell-based lab experiments to map how these proteins control the DNA damage response. Findings could point to new biological targets that future therapies might exploit to protect against cancer and neurodegeneration.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People affected by cancers, genetic DNA repair disorders, or age-related neurodegenerative conditions would be the most likely beneficiaries of follow-up work, though this grant itself focuses on lab research rather than direct patient treatment.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct enrollment in a clinical trial are unlikely to benefit right now because the project is basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new protein targets that help improve DNA repair and eventually reduce risks for cancer and age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: High-throughput screens and proteomics have previously identified DNA repair factors, but using the ChromORFeome screen and the specific focus on ZNF280A represents a newer, less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CLARKE, THOMAS L — BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS
- Study coordinator: CLARKE, THOMAS L
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.