How BRCA2 and RAD51 affect response to PARP inhibitor drugs
Defining the Roles of BRCA2 and RAD51 in PARPi Response
The researchers will learn why people with BRCA1/2 gene changes respond differently to PARP inhibitor drugs so treatments can be better matched to each patient.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11332678 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
I have a BRCA-related mutation and want treatments that work for me; this project aims to explain why PARP inhibitors kill BRCA-mutant cells but not normal cells. The team uses purified BRCA2 protein pieces and lab-grown cells to test how specific mutations change DNA repair steps like RAD51 filament formation and replication fork protection. By combining detailed biochemical experiments with cellular assays, they will map which mutations cause sensitivity or resistance to different PARP inhibitors. The results should help doctors predict which patients will benefit from particular PARP drugs and suggest ways to overcome resistance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers driven by BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations or carriers of pathogenic BRCA variants are the most relevant population for these findings.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers are not related to BRCA1/2 changes or who lack RAD51-related pathway alterations may not see direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could help match PARP inhibitor drugs to a patient’s specific BRCA mutation and point to ways to prevent or overcome drug resistance.
How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical and laboratory work shows PARP inhibitors often work in BRCA-mutant cancers but resistance is common, so this project builds on known successes while addressing remaining mechanistic questions.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jensen, Ryan Brown — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Jensen, Ryan Brown
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.