How environmental stress affects cancer development through RNA modifications
Official title: Epitranscriptomic mechanism of environmental stress response and tumorigenesis
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11096054 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how things in our environment, like arsenic and UV light, can harm our DNA and possibly lead to cancer, and it focuses on how certain changes in RNA might help our cells repair themselves; the researchers hope to use what they learn to improve our understanding of cancer in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,230,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35ES031693-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11096054 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of exposure to environmental carcinogens or those at risk for cancer due to such exposures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of environmental exposure or those with cancers unrelated to environmental factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how environmental factors, such as arsenic and UV radiation, can damage DNA and disrupt cellular functions, potentially leading to cancer. The study focuses on understanding the role of RNA modifications, particularly m6A methylation, in DNA repair and cellular health. By using biochemical systems, cell cultures, and mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which these environmental agents influence tumor development. Ultimately, the goal is to translate these findings to human samples to better understand their relevance in cancer biology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cancers caused by environmental exposures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of RNA modifications in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: He, Yu-Ying — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: He, Yu-Ying
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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.