How cells recognize and protect DNA during reproduction and immune defense
Molecular mechanisms of nucleic acid recognition and maintenance in meiosis and innate immunity
Researchers are learning how cellular machines spot and preserve DNA during the making of egg and sperm cells and during immune responses to help explain genetic stability and cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11247087 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This lab uses biochemical and structural methods to see how proteins bind and protect DNA during meiosis (the cell division that produces eggs and sperm) and during innate immune reactions. The team combines purified protein work, imaging of molecular structures, and experiments in model cells to map these interactions. By defining how genome maintenance normally works, they aim to explain chromosome errors that can lead to disease. The work is laboratory-based at UC San Diego and does not currently enroll patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients, but its findings are most relevant to people with cancers or genetic conditions linked to DNA repair and chromosome instability.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatments or direct participation in a clinical trial will likely not benefit directly from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal root causes of DNA damage and chromosome errors that contribute to cancer, pointing to new targets for diagnostics or future therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Related structural and biochemical studies have clarified mechanisms for other DNA-repair proteins, and this project builds on those established methods while addressing new targets.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Corbett, Kevin Daniel — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Corbett, Kevin Daniel
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.