NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Protecting blood stem cells from DNA damage

Official title: Protection of hematopoietic stem progenitor cells from endogenous DNA damage

Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11062869 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking for ways to protect important blood-making cells from damage caused by harmful substances, specifically for people with Fanconi anemia, to help prevent serious issues like bone marrow failure and cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project startApril 21, 2025
Project endMarch 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$380,383
NIH project number1R00HL177829-01
Project IDNIH-11062869 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Fanconi anemia or those at risk of bone marrow failure due to DNA damage.

Less likely to help

Patients without any genetic predisposition to bone marrow failure or those not affected by DNA damage-related conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how to protect hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which are crucial for producing blood cells, from DNA damage caused by reactive aldehydes. The study will utilize advanced techniques like CRISPR technology to identify and enhance the enzymes that detoxify these harmful substances. By using a model that mimics human conditions, the researchers aim to discover new ways to prevent DNA damage in patients with Fanconi anemia, a condition that makes them particularly vulnerable. The ultimate goal is to develop therapies that can prevent bone marrow failure and related cancers.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect patients with Fanconi anemia from severe blood-related complications.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using CRISPR technology for gene editing and enhancing cellular functions, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Johns Hopkins University
    Baltimore, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Jung, Moonjung — Johns Hopkins University
  • Study coordinator: Jung, Moonjung

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.