Investigating how a specific enzyme repairs DNA damage in cells
Single-molecule studies of Theta mediated end joining
This study is looking at how a special enzyme called DNA polymerase θ helps fix broken DNA, which is really important for keeping our genes healthy, and it could help us understand more about cancer and why some people have problems with DNA repair.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10868626 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of DNA polymerase θ in repairing DNA double-strand breaks, a critical process for maintaining genomic stability. By using advanced biochemical and single-molecule techniques, the project aims to uncover the mechanisms of polymerase theta-mediated end joining (TMEJ) and how it is regulated during DNA repair. The research will explore the initial steps of TMEJ, including how the enzyme interacts with DNA and other repair factors, and how it contributes to resolving complex DNA damage scenarios. This knowledge could lead to better insights into cancer vulnerabilities linked to DNA repair defects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that exhibit defects in DNA repair processes.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers unrelated to DNA repair mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer treatments by targeting specific vulnerabilities in tumors related to DNA repair mechanisms.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on polymerase theta-mediated end joining is relatively novel, similar studies on DNA repair mechanisms have shown promising results in understanding cancer biology.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rothenberg, Eli — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Rothenberg, Eli
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.