Investigating how DNA methylation affects cancer development
Transfer: DNA Methylation Canyons in Human Cancers: Methods, Target Genes and Functional Consequences
This study is looking at how changes in DNA, called methylation, can turn on genes that help cancer grow, especially in breast and colon cancers, and it hopes to find new ways to treat these cancers by understanding these changes better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10543784 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of DNA methylation, an important epigenetic modification, in the activation of oncogenes that drive cancer growth. It focuses on understanding how these methylation patterns differ between normal tissues and tumors, particularly in breast and colon cancers. By examining regions of DNA known as 'methylation canyons,' the study aims to uncover how these areas influence gene expression and contribute to tumorigenesis. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting these epigenetic changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with breast or colon cancer who are interested in understanding the genetic and epigenetic factors of their disease.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers not related to breast or colon, or those without an interest in genetic research, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target the epigenetic mechanisms driving cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of DNA methylation in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Wei — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Li, Wei
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.