How our cells make copies of DNA
Structural mechanism of DNA replication
This project helps us understand the basic steps of how DNA copies itself inside our cells, which is important for understanding diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Van Andel Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11092701 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This grant explores the intricate process of how DNA, our genetic material, makes copies of itself. Researchers are looking closely at the tiny structures and steps involved when a cell prepares to divide, focusing on how key proteins come together to start and carry out this copying process. By using advanced imaging techniques, they can visualize these molecular machines in action. This foundational knowledge is crucial because errors in DNA copying can lead to serious health problems, including cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical applications could benefit patients with conditions related to abnormal cell division, like cancer.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding the fundamental process of DNA replication could lead to new ways to target diseases where cell division goes wrong, such as cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has successfully clarified several steps in DNA replication, and advances in imaging techniques have made it possible to visualize these complex mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Grand Rapids, United States
- Van Andel Research Institute — Grand Rapids, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Huilin — Van Andel Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Li, Huilin
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.