How APOBEC enzymes change DNA and affect cancer
PROJECT 3 – BIOLOGY OF DNA DEAMINASES IN CANCER
Researchers are studying APOBEC enzymes that alter DNA in cancer cells to find ways to slow tumor changes and help treatments work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11198650 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
As a patient, I want to know why some cancers pick up lots of DNA mutations—this project focuses on enzymes called APOBEC3A and APOBEC3B that can cause those changes. Scientists will look at how these enzymes are regulated in human tumor cells using genetics, proteomics, and computer-based analyses. They will also study how cells process the unusual DNA (uracil lesions) created by APOBECs, using human cell systems and new mouse models that mimic APOBEC-driven mutation patterns. The team aims to identify points where APOBEC activity can be blocked to slow tumor evolution.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with cancers known to show APOBEC-related mutation patterns or patients willing to donate tumor samples for laboratory research.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment benefit or those with cancers driven by other mutation processes are unlikely to receive direct clinical benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, blocking APOBEC activity could reduce harmful mutations, slow tumor progression, and improve responses to cancer therapy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown APOBEC enzymes drive mutations in many cancers, but direct treatments targeting them remain largely experimental.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harris, Reuben S — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Harris, Reuben S
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.