How APOBEC enzymes cause mutations in cancer
Molecular Mechanisms of APOBEC-Induced Mutagenesis in Cancer
This work looks at how APOBEC enzymes change DNA to create mutations that make tumors more diverse, which could help people with cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11211284 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers at UC Irvine will analyze tumor samples and lab-grown cancer cells to see how APOBEC enzymes (especially APOBEC3A and APOBEC3B) create mutation patterns in DNA. They will use DNA sequencing and molecular lab experiments to compare enzyme levels, mutation patterns, and DNA repair processes. The team will investigate why some tumors have strong APOBEC mutation signatures even when the enzyme appears low, to find hidden sources of DNA damage. Understanding these steps may point to ways to limit harmful mutations and slow tumor evolution.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with tumors that show APOBEC-related mutation patterns or who are willing to donate tumor tissue for research would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not show APOBEC-related mutations or who need immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to get direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to tests or treatments that slow tumor mutation rates and reduce the chance of treatment resistance or relapse.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has identified APOBEC mutation patterns in many cancers and suggested roles for APOBEC3A and APOBEC3B, but the exact molecular mechanisms and ways to block them remain largely unresolved.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Buisson, Remi — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Buisson, Remi
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.