How pollution activates mobile DNA elements that may raise lung cancer risk
Functional Genomics of LINE-1 Retrotransposition
['FUNDING_R01'] · TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCE CTR · NIH-11258868
This research looks at how air pollution chemicals turn on mobile DNA pieces called LINE‑1 in lung cells and how that might increase the chance of lung cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCE CTR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (COLLEGE STATION, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11258868 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would be contributing to lab-based work that uses advanced gene sequencing and cellular experiments to see how benzo(a)pyrene and related pollutants change DNA regulation in lung cells. Researchers will map genome-wide changes and epigenetic markers and measure activation of LINE‑1 mobile elements in human lung epithelial cells or patient-derived samples. They will link LINE‑1 activity to cancer-related signaling and chromatin changes using molecular assays and CRISPR-based tools. The goal is to connect environmental exposures to molecular steps that can drive malignant transformation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with a history of heavy air pollution exposure, occupational PAH exposure, or lung cancer who can provide tissue or other biospecimens would be most relevant to contribute samples.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or symptom relief are unlikely to benefit, since this is laboratory-focused, foundational research rather than a clinical therapy trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reveal biomarkers or molecular targets that help prevent or detect pollution-related lung cancer earlier.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown LINE‑1 activation after exposure to carcinogens like benzo(a)pyrene, but turning those findings into proven patient treatments or diagnostics is still largely untested.
Where this research is happening
COLLEGE STATION, UNITED STATES
- TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCE CTR — COLLEGE STATION, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RAMOS, KENNETH S. — TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCE CTR
- Study coordinator: RAMOS, KENNETH S.
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.