How APOBEC3 enzymes cause mutations in breast, bladder, and other cancers

Molecular origins and impact of APOBEC3 mutagenesis in cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-11159688

Researchers want to understand how APOBEC3 proteins create mutation patterns in cancers like breast and bladder so future prevention and treatments can be improved.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11159688 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This project looks at mutation patterns found across human cancer genomes and focuses on two common APOBEC3-related signatures seen in many tumors. The team uses tumor DNA data and human cancer cell lines that naturally show APOBEC3 activity to trace which APOBEC3 enzymes cause which mutations. They combine genomic analyses with laboratory assays to measure the contribution of individual APOBEC3 members to tumor mutations. Their goal is to connect enzyme activity with how cancers start, evolve, and respond to treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People with breast, bladder, or lung cancer, or patients willing to donate tumor samples or genomic data, would be most relevant to this work.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that are not driven by APOBEC3-related mutations or those seeking immediate therapeutic benefit are unlikely to gain direct, short-term benefit from this project.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify mutation processes that might be prevented, detected earlier, or targeted to improve cancer outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Genomic studies have already identified APOBEC mutation signatures and links to clinical outcomes, but pinpointing the exact roles of specific APOBEC3 enzymes remains an active and emerging area.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Bladder Cancer, Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer cell line, Cancer Cause

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.