Investigating how UV light causes DNA damage linked to skin cancer
Official title: Genome-wide analysis of the formation and mutagenesis of atypical UV photoproducts in skin cancer
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-11011501 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how UV light can harm your skin cells and lead to skin cancer, especially melanoma, to find new ways to help prevent and treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2021 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $416,865 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES032814-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011501 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of significant UV exposure or those diagnosed with skin cancer, particularly melanoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with skin cancers not related to UV exposure or those without a history of UV damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light leads to DNA damage that can result in skin cancers, particularly melanoma. It examines the formation of atypical DNA lesions caused by UV light and how these lesions may contribute to mutations that drive cancer progression. By analyzing the genetic changes in skin cells exposed to UV light, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms of skin cancer development that go beyond traditional mutation patterns. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for skin cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into the mechanisms of skin cancer development, potentially leading to better prevention and treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: While the investigation of atypical UV lesions is a relatively novel approach, previous studies have shown success in understanding traditional UV-induced mutations in skin cancers.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wyrick, John J — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Wyrick, John J
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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.