How cells fix damaged DNA where it’s wrapped around proteins

Regulation of DNA Excision Repair in Chromatin

['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11308328

Researchers are learning how cells repair DNA damage in the way DNA is packaged, which could help explain cancer risk for people with DNA-repair problems.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PULLMAN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11308328 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This project uses a new sequencing method (MNase-CPD-seq) to map where UV-induced DNA damage sits within packaged DNA (chromatin) in cells. Researchers follow how nucleosomes (the protein-DNA units) shift to expose damaged sites and expand linker regions over time. They test how damage-recognition proteins such as XPC and UV-DDB help the nucleotide and base excision repair systems work inside chromatin. The work is done in cells and lab models to build understanding that could inform why people with repair defects develop cancer and guide future clinical efforts.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People with inherited DNA-repair disorders (for example Xeroderma pigmentosum) or those with a history of UV-related skin cancers would be most relevant to provide samples or be considered for future related studies.

Not a fit: People without DNA-repair-related conditions or those expecting immediate changes in clinical care are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could clarify why some people are prone to cancer from DNA damage and suggest targets for future prevention or treatment approaches.

How similar studies have performed: Prior lab studies have shown nucleosome movement and roles for XPC/UV-DDB in repair, but the MNase-CPD-seq method provides a new, higher-resolution view of these events.

Where this research is happening

PULLMAN, 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: Cancer Induction, Cancers

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.