How cells begin copying DNA and how mistakes can lead to cancer
Structure-Function Analysis of DNA Replication Initiation Factors Implicated in Disease
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11170404
Scientists will watch, at the single-molecule level, how human DNA copying starts to learn why the process goes wrong in cancers and how that knowledge could help people with cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11170404 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This lab uses a powerful single-molecule imaging method to watch the proteins that start DNA replication in real time. Researchers will compare human replication factors to simpler yeast versions to find human-specific parts and interactions. They will map how mutations or overexpression of these proteins can destabilize the genome and promote cancer-like cell growth. The work is laboratory-based and aims to point toward future biomarkers or drug targets for cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers linked to abnormalities in DNA replication factors, or those willing to donate tumor tissue or blood samples for research, would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Individuals seeking an immediate clinical treatment or those without cancers related to DNA replication errors are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could reveal new molecular targets or biomarkers that help detect or treat cancers driven by DNA replication errors.
How similar studies have performed: Single-molecule and biochemical studies have clarified replication mechanisms in yeast, but applying these approaches to human replication factors is relatively new and less explored.
Where this research is happening
STANFORD, UNITED STATES
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY — STANFORD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHISTOL, GHEORGHE — STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: CHISTOL, GHEORGHE
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.