Investigating how cancer cells use circular DNA to grow and resist treatment
eDyNAmiC - UCSD
This study is looking into a special type of DNA found in some cancers that helps tumors grow and become tougher to treat, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how this DNA works so we can find better ways to fight cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10622287 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) in cancer, which allows tumor-promoting genes to escape from chromosomes and form circular DNA structures. These ecDNAs enable tumors to increase the expression of cancer-causing genes and evolve rapidly, making them more aggressive and resistant to treatments. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind ecDNA formation, function, and their role in cancer progression, with the goal of identifying new therapeutic targets. By collaborating with a team of experts, the research seeks to fill critical gaps in knowledge about ecDNA and its impact on patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients whose tumors contain extrachromosomal DNA, which is present in nearly half of all cancer types.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve extrachromosomal DNA may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for aggressive cancers that harbor ecDNA, potentially improving survival rates for affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of ecDNA has been recognized for decades, recent advancements in understanding its role in cancer are still emerging, indicating that this research is at the forefront of a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bafna, Vineet — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Bafna, Vineet
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.