How a mobile gene called LINE-1 may harm fallopian tube cells
Defining the genomic and biologic impact of LINE-1 activity in fallopian tube epithelial cells
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11331303
Looking at whether activity of a jumping gene called LINE‑1 damages fallopian tube cells and helps explain risk for high‑grade serous ovarian cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11331303 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine fallopian tube cells and follicular fluid samples to see if LINE‑1 (a mobile genetic element) becomes active after ovulation and causes DNA damage. They will measure LINE‑1 protein in blood/plasma and look for new LINE‑1 insertions and signs of chromosomal instability in lab models and human tissue. The team will study how known tumor suppressors like p53 and BRCA1 control LINE‑1 activity to understand who might be most vulnerable. Findings aim to point toward early markers or biological steps that lead from tubal precancers to ovarian cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants would include people with or at high genetic risk for HGSOC (for example, BRCA1 carriers), or women undergoing gynecologic surgery who can donate fallopian tube tissue, follicular fluid, or blood samples.
Not a fit: People looking for an immediate treatment or cure should not expect direct clinical benefit because this is laboratory and tissue‑based research focused on disease mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal early biological steps or blood markers that help detect or prevent high‑grade serous ovarian cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown LINE‑1 is active in many cancers and its protein can be detected in patient plasma, but linking LINE‑1 activity specifically to fallopian tube precancers and HGSOC progression is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RUEDA, BO R. — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: RUEDA, BO R.
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.