Investigating how DNA replication starts in cancer cells
Official title: Structural studies of metazoan origin licensing
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10975350 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cancer cells start copying their DNA and aims to find new ways to stop this process, which could lead to better and safer treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31CA278331-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10975350 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with various types of cancer who may benefit from new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those who do not have a diagnosis of cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the process of DNA replication initiation in cancer cells, specifically how the Mcm2-7 helicase is loaded onto DNA. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the researchers aim to uncover the structural details of this process, which could lead to the development of new cancer therapies. The study seeks to identify small-molecule inhibitors that can selectively target this initiation pathway, potentially offering a novel approach to treating cancer. Patients may benefit from new treatments that are less harmful to healthy cells and more effective against tumors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of innovative cancer therapies that specifically target the DNA replication process in cancer cells.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting DNA replication initiation is a relatively novel approach, similar strategies have shown promise in other studies, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hunker, Olivia — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Hunker, Olivia
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.