Investigating how sex hormones affect DNA repair in skin cells

A role of balanced sex hormone in DNA repair in human melanocytes

NIH-funded research University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10666307

This study is looking at how hormones like testosterone and estradiol help skin cells heal from damage caused by UV rays, and it's for people interested in understanding how these hormones might help prevent melanoma, a type of skin cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Memphis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10666307 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of sex hormones, particularly testosterone and estradiol, in the repair of DNA damage caused by ultraviolet radiation in human skin cells called melanocytes. By conducting both in vitro and in vivo experiments, the study aims to understand how different levels of these hormones influence the ability of skin cells to recover from DNA damage. Participants will have their skin exposed to UV radiation, and the effects of hormone application will be monitored to assess DNA repair mechanisms. The findings could lead to new prevention strategies for melanoma, a type of skin cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include adult males and females who are interested in understanding their risk for melanoma and the role of hormones in skin health.

Not a fit: Patients who are not adults or those with pre-existing severe skin conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative prevention strategies for melanoma by leveraging hormonal influences on DNA repair.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that hormonal levels can influence cancer risk and DNA repair, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Memphis, 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 Cancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.