How DNA repair pathways affect cancer caused by methylation damage
Official title: Impact of DNA Repair Pathway Interactions on the Molecular and Physiological Consequences of Methylation Damage
Funded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11117032 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a chemical called NDMA can damage DNA and lead to cancer, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how our bodies repair that damage, which could help improve cancer treatments in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $374,106 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA290188-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11117032 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of exposure to methylating agents or those at risk for cancers associated with DNA damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of exposure to methylating agents or those with cancers unrelated to DNA damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how DNA damage from a chemical called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), which is found in various environmental sources, contributes to cancer. The study focuses on understanding the interactions between three DNA repair pathways: direct reversal, mismatch repair, and homologous recombination. By using genetically engineered mouse models, researchers aim to explore how these pathways respond to specific DNA lesions caused by NDMA, which could lead to better insights into cancer development. Patients may benefit from improved understanding of cancer mechanisms and potential new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into cancer prevention and treatment strategies related to DNA damage.
How similar studies have gone: While the interactions of DNA repair pathways have been studied, this research aims to address gaps in understanding their effects in vivo, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Engelward, Bevin P. — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Engelward, Bevin P.
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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.