Improving cancer treatment by targeting DNA repair mechanisms

Integrating Epigenetic Modulation into DNA Damage Repair

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11088306

This study is looking at how to make cancer treatments work better for people with certain genetic mutations by using a combination of two medications, and it’s designed for patients who have hereditary DNA repair issues like BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11088306 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments by focusing on DNA repair mechanisms in tumors with specific genetic mutations. It explores the use of a low-dose DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, decitabine, in combination with poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) to improve treatment outcomes for patients with hereditary DNA repair mutations. By studying the interactions between these therapies, the research aims to find a more effective approach to treating cancers associated with mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2. Patients may be involved in trials that assess the safety and efficacy of these combined treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with hereditary DNA repair mutations, particularly those with BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM, or CHEK2 mutations.

Not a fit: Patients without hereditary DNA repair mutations or those with cancers not associated with these genetic factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments for patients with specific genetic mutations, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing cancer treatment efficacy through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this study.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.