How enzymes control DNA recombination and repair
Enzymatic Mechanisms of Genetic Recombination
Scientists will use baker's yeast to learn how enzymes and genes cause or prevent large DNA rearrangements that can drive cancers, with a focus on BRCA-related defects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| 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-11176975 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you or a family member have a cancer linked to BRCA genes, this project studies the cellular tricks that cause big DNA rearrangements that can lead to cancer. The team uses baker's yeast as a model to find genes and enzyme activities that suppress or promote these gross chromosomal rearrangements. They perform genetic screens and molecular assays to map pathways that keep genomes stable and to identify synthetic‑lethal partner genes. Findings aim to guide new diagnostics and targeted therapies for cancers with DNA repair defects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, or cancers known to show high genome instability, are the most likely to benefit from results or future trials informed by this work.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to DNA repair or genome instability are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reveal new biomarkers and drug targets for cancers driven by genome instability, including BRCA1/2‑related tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Related work identifying DNA‑repair weaknesses led to PARP inhibitor treatments for BRCA‑deficient cancers, showing this approach can translate into effective therapies.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kolodner, Richard D — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Kolodner, Richard D
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.