Investigating how a new RNA affects cancer caused by arsenic exposure
Official title: circSATB2, a novel regulator of arsenic-induced carcinogenesis
Funded at Van Andel Research Institute · NIH-11007210 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common toxin called inorganic arsenic might lead to cancer and is exploring a special type of RNA that could help protect important genes; the findings could help develop new treatments for people affected by arsenic-related cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Van Andel Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project start | January 7, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $628,913 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES036051-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11007210 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to inorganic arsenic and are at risk for developing related cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to arsenic or do not have arsenic-related health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how inorganic arsenic, a common environmental toxin, contributes to cancer development. It examines the role of a newly discovered circular RNA, circSATB2, which may protect certain cancer-related genes from degradation. By studying the effects of arsenic on DNA and chromatin structure, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms of arsenic-induced oncogenesis. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for arsenic-related cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or preventive measures for cancers caused by arsenic exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the molecular mechanisms of arsenic-induced carcinogenesis, but the specific approach of targeting circSATB2 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Van Andel Research Institute
Grand Rapids, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fondufe-Mittendorf, Yvonne Nsokika — Van Andel Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Fondufe-Mittendorf, Yvonne Nsokika
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.