Improving treatment for cancers with BRCA mutations

Targeting base damage repair in BRCA-mutant cancers

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10979730

This study is looking at how a certain enzyme might help make cancer treatments more effective for people with BRCA mutations, especially those with breast and ovarian cancers, so they can possibly take lower doses of chemotherapy with fewer side effects while still getting good results.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10979730 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of existing cancer treatments for patients with BRCA mutations, particularly in breast and ovarian cancers. It investigates how a specific enzyme, ALC1, affects the sensitivity of cancer cells to a type of chemotherapy known as PARP inhibitors. By understanding the mechanisms behind this sensitivity, the research aims to develop strategies that could allow for lower doses of medication, potentially reducing side effects while maintaining treatment efficacy. Patients may benefit from new therapeutic approaches that could improve their response to treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancers that have BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations.

Not a fit: Patients without BRCA mutations or those with other types of cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less toxic treatment options for patients with BRCA-mutant cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar mechanisms in BRCA-mutant cancers, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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 2026-06-15 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.