Investigating how a protein called Elf1 helps repair DNA damage
Official title: The role of Elf1 in transcription coupled-nucleotide excision repair
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-11125891 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Elf1 helps fix DNA damage in cells, which is especially important for people with conditions like Cockayne syndrome, and it uses yeast and human cells to learn more about how this process works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | June 27, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $193,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21ES035888-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11125891 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Cockayne syndrome or similar genetic disorders affecting DNA repair mechanisms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without genetic disorders related to DNA repair or those not affected by conditions like Cockayne syndrome may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein named Elf1 in the process of transcription coupled-nucleotide excision repair (TC-NER), which is essential for fixing DNA damage that can disrupt normal cell function. By studying this process in yeast and human cells, the researchers aim to uncover how Elf1 interacts with other proteins to facilitate DNA repair, particularly in conditions like Cockayne syndrome, where DNA repair mechanisms are impaired. The study employs genetic techniques and advanced mapping of DNA damage to explore these interactions and their implications for genome stability.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential therapies for conditions related to DNA repair deficiencies, such as Cockayne syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, but the specific role of Elf1 in TC-NER is a relatively novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wyrick, John J — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Wyrick, John J
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.