Investigating how DNA damage response pathways can be targeted for cancer therapy

Exploring DNA damage response pathways as targets for cancer therapy

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10898051

This study is looking at how problems with the body's ability to fix DNA can lead to cancer, and it aims to find new ways to treat patients, especially those with certain genetic changes like BRCA1/2, by using advanced techniques to improve current treatments and develop new ones.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10898051 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how defects in DNA damage response (DDR) pathways contribute to cancer development and how these pathways can be targeted for treatment. By studying essential DDR genes and proteins, the project aims to uncover their roles in cell proliferation and DNA repair both in laboratory settings and in living organisms. The research will utilize advanced techniques, including CRISPR screens, to explore new therapeutic strategies that could improve cancer treatment outcomes for patients with specific genetic mutations, such as BRCA1/2. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies and develop new ones based on the insights gained from these studies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients with BRCA1/2 mutations or those with tumors exhibiting DNA damage response deficiencies.

Not a fit: Patients without BRCA mutations or those whose cancers do not involve DNA damage response pathways may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer therapies that specifically target the underlying genetic defects in tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in targeting DNA damage response pathways, particularly with the approval of PARP inhibitors for BRCA-related cancers, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancer PatientCancer Treatment
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.