How repeated DNA or RNA pieces can damage cells and DNA
Repetitive sequences causing genomic instability and cell dysfunction
This research looks at how repeated stretches of DNA or RNA can cause DNA damage and cell problems, with a focus on BRCA1-related processes that matter to people at risk for breast and ovarian cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11226569 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team studies how repetitive DNA or RNA sequences can form unusual shapes that block the cell's copying and protein-making machines and lead to mutations or cell breakdown. They use human cells and molecular lab tests to watch what happens when these repeats stall DNA replication or interfere with translation. The researchers are specifically examining how different amounts of the BRCA1 protein affect the cell's ability to cope with these repeat-related problems and what backup mechanisms kick in when BRCA1 levels are reduced. The work combines biochemical assays, genetic tools, and molecular imaging to map where instability happens and why.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with known BRCA1 mutations or strong family histories of breast/ovarian cancer would be the most relevant candidates for related future studies or sample donation.
Not a fit: Those without BRCA1-related risks or whose conditions are unrelated to repeat-associated genomic instability are unlikely to see direct benefit in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could clarify why BRCA1-related cells become unstable and help guide new ways to prevent or treat cancers and repeat-expansion diseases linked to these problems.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown BRCA1 is critical for DNA repair and that repeat expansions cause disease, but combining BRCA1 dosage effects with repeat-associated instability is a more recent and less-explored area.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gerhardt, Jeannine — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Gerhardt, Jeannine
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.