How jumping genes affect cancer's genetic makeup
Consequences of retrotransposition on genome integrity
This project looks at how "jumping genes" in our DNA might cause changes that lead to cancer and help it grow.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143886 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies contain "jumping genes" called transposable elements that can move around in our DNA. This movement can sometimes cause changes, or mutations, that are linked to human diseases, especially cancers. We believe these jumping genes might not only insert themselves into new places but also cause larger rearrangements in the DNA, making cancer cells more unstable. To understand this better, we are using laboratory models and advanced computer analysis of real cancer samples to see how these jumping genes contribute to cancer's development and progression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research focuses on the genetic mechanisms of cancer, and while not directly recruiting patients, it is highly relevant to individuals with various cancers, including esophageal adenocarcinoma and Barrett's syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how these jumping genes contribute to cancer could lead to new ways to prevent or treat various cancers by targeting these specific genetic changes.
How similar studies have performed: The activity of transposable elements in human cancers is a known phenomenon, and this project builds on existing genomic observations and in vitro data to explore a novel mechanism of genome instability.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Dana-Farber Cancer Inst — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burns, Kathleen H — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Burns, Kathleen H
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.