How certain DNA polymerases contribute to cancer development under stress conditions
Pro-tumorigenic functions of human DNA polymerases eta and kappa during genome duplication under physiological replication stress conditions
This study is looking at how certain enzymes help copy our DNA, especially when cancer cells are under stress, to better understand how mistakes in this process can lead to cancer, which could eventually help improve treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10594039 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific DNA polymerases, eta and kappa, in the replication of the human genome, particularly under conditions that stress tumor cells. By understanding how these enzymes navigate difficult-to-replicate sequences in the genome, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind replication errors that lead to cancer mutations. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the replication process and its implications for genome stability, which is crucial for cancer progression. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how tumors evolve and adapt, potentially leading to improved cancer therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with various types of cancer, particularly those with tumors exhibiting high genomic instability.
Not a fit: Patients with non-malignant conditions or those whose tumors do not exhibit significant replication stress may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cancers by targeting the mechanisms that allow tumor cells to survive and adapt.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of DNA polymerases in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Hershey, United States
- Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr — Hershey, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Eckert, Kristin a — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Eckert, Kristin a
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.