NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Mapping DNA damage related to aging and disease

Official title: DNA-Protein Cross-Linking Sequencing for Genome-Wide Mapping of Abasic Sites at Single-Nucleotide Resolution

Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11284156 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain types of DNA damage happen in our cells, especially when we're exposed to harmful substances or when our cells change in certain ways, and it aims to understand how this damage might be linked to aging and diseases like cancer, which could help us learn more about how these conditions develop.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project startAugust 11, 2023
Project endMarch 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$249,000
NIH project number4R00ES035446-02
Project IDNIH-11284156 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals concerned about accelerated aging or those with a family history of aging-related diseases or cancer.

Less likely to help

Patients with no interest in aging-related conditions or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to such diseases may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific types of DNA damage, known as abasic sites, occur and are repaired in the human genome, particularly in response to environmental toxins and changes in the cell's epigenetic state. By developing a new sequencing method, the study aims to map these DNA lesions at a very detailed level, which could help understand their role in accelerated aging and diseases like cancer. The research will also explore how these DNA damages contribute to mutations found in cancer genomes, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of these conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential interventions for aging-related diseases and cancer.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding DNA damage and repair mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Florida
    Gainesville, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Tang, Feng — University of Florida
  • Study coordinator: Tang, Feng

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.