How DNA-protein cross-links form and are repaired
Official title: Formation and Repair Mechanisms of DNA-Protein Cross-Links, and Functions and Regulatory Mechanisms of TREX1 in DNA Repair
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11122279 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain harmful links between DNA and proteins form and how our cells can fix them, which is important for understanding cancer and improving treatments, especially for patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $383,760 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM155148-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11122279 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing chemotherapy or those with conditions related to DNA damage and repair mechanisms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to DNA damage or those not undergoing cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the formation and repair of DNA-protein cross-links, which are harmful DNA lesions that can lead to genome instability and diseases, including cancer. The study focuses on understanding how these cross-links occur, particularly in relation to single-strand breaks in DNA, and how they can be repaired. By utilizing advanced techniques like mass spectrometry, the research aims to quantify these lesions and explore their implications for cellular health and response to chemotherapy. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments and reduce side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer treatment strategies by identifying new biomarkers and enhancing the efficacy of existing therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding DNA damage and repair mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Kun — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Yang, Kun
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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.