Investigating how DNA repair proteins work together to fix damaged DNA
Watching cooperative interactions between base and nucleotide excision repair proteins
This study is looking at how certain proteins work together to fix damage to our DNA caused by things in our environment, which could help us understand more about how DNA damage is linked to diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11045751 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the interactions between different DNA repair proteins that protect our genetic material from damage caused by environmental factors. Using advanced techniques in biochemistry and cell biology, the team will observe how these proteins cooperate at the molecular level to repair oxidized DNA bases. By employing innovative tools, they aim to visualize these interactions in real-time, providing insights into the mechanisms of DNA repair. This knowledge could lead to better understanding of how DNA damage contributes to diseases like cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a predisposition to cancers associated with DNA repair deficiencies.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to DNA damage or repair mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of DNA repair mechanisms, potentially leading to improved treatments for cancers related to DNA damage.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, but this approach using real-time observation of protein interactions is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Houten, Bennett — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Van Houten, Bennett
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.