Investigating how cells manage telomere shortening and its link to cancer development
POLQ- and CtIP-regulated telomere fusions and translocations are involved in early events in carcinogenesis
This study is looking into how some cells manage to keep dividing even when their protective caps, called telomeres, get shorter with age, which could help us understand more about cancer and aging for people who are concerned about these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10895467 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms that allow cells to escape the crisis caused by the shortening of telomeres, which are protective caps on the ends of chromosomes. As cells age, their telomeres shorten, leading to a state called senescence that normally prevents cancer. However, if a cell acquires mutations, it can bypass this barrier and continue to divide, potentially leading to cancer. The study aims to explore the role of specific proteins involved in DNA repair and telomere maintenance, which could provide insights into cancer development and aging.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of cancer or those diagnosed with conditions related to telomere dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers unrelated to telomere shortening or those who do not have any genetic predisposition to telomere-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cancers associated with telomere dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding telomere biology is crucial in cancer development, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hendrickson, Eric a — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Hendrickson, Eric a
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.