How ATR helps prevent DNA damage and mutations
Official title: Impact of ATR's role in translesion synthesis on prevention of DNA damage induced mutagenesis and chromosomal instability
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-11004298 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called ATR helps cells copy their DNA even when there are problems, which is important for understanding how mistakes in DNA copying can lead to issues like mutations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | March 22, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $288,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM149683-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004298 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to DNA damage and repair, such as certain genetic disorders or cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no known issues related to DNA damage or those not affected by conditions linked to chromosomal instability may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of ATR kinase in facilitating the replication of DNA when it encounters damage. By studying how ATR influences translesion synthesis (TLS) DNA polymerases, the research aims to understand the mechanisms that allow cells to replicate DNA accurately despite the presence of lesions. The project will involve biochemical and genetic analyses to compare the replication processes in cells with and without functional ATR. This could provide insights into how errors in DNA replication can lead to mutations and chromosomal instability.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing DNA damage-related diseases, including certain cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Prakash, Satya — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Prakash, Satya
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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.