Targeting a key enzyme in ovarian cancer treatment

Targeting DNA Ligase I in Ovarian Cancer

NIH-funded research University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-11080867

This study is looking at how stopping a specific enzyme can help kill ovarian cancer cells, especially those that struggle with repairing their DNA, to find better treatments for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-11080867 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how inhibiting DNA ligase I, an enzyme crucial for DNA replication, can selectively kill ovarian cancer cells. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which cancer cells, particularly those with defects in DNA repair, respond to this inhibition. By using a combination of genetic and biochemical techniques, researchers aim to uncover how blocking this enzyme affects cancer cell survival and therapy resistance. The goal is to develop a targeted therapy that could improve treatment outcomes for patients with ovarian cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer, particularly those whose tumors exhibit defects in DNA repair mechanisms.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage ovarian cancer or those whose tumors do not have DNA repair deficiencies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for ovarian cancer, potentially improving survival rates and reducing therapy resistance.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting DNA repair pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, 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 anti-cancer therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.