How cells bypass DNA damage during copying
Structural and Mechanistic Studies of DNA Damage Bypass Pathways in Eukaryotes
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-11235101
This work aims to learn how cells copy their DNA when it is damaged so future treatments for cancer and age-related conditions can be developed.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF IOWA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11235101 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers at the University of Iowa will use biochemical experiments, structural biology, biophysics, and computer modeling to look at the protein machines that let cells copy DNA past damaged spots. They will focus on two pathways—translesion synthesis (special polymerases that copy over lesions) and template switching (using the undamaged copy as a guide). The team will map how these proteins assemble at stalled replication forks and how a key protein modification (PCNA ubiquitylation) controls that assembly. Findings will come from purified protein work, cell-based experiments, and high-resolution structural data.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancer, inherited DNA repair disorders, or conditions linked to DNA damage are the most likely to benefit from advances that follow this work.
Not a fit: This grant funds lab-based basic research and does not offer immediate treatments or clinical visits, so patients seeking direct clinical care will not benefit right away.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could reveal new molecular targets to prevent or reduce the mutations that drive cancer and some aspects of aging.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory studies of DNA repair proteins and PCNA modifications have clarified mechanisms and sometimes pointed to drug targets, but turning those discoveries into therapies has been slow and challenging.
Where this research is happening
IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF IOWA — IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WASHINGTON, M. TODD — UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
- Study coordinator: WASHINGTON, M. TODD
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.
Conditions: Cancers, DNA Injury