Understanding DNA Errors in Cancer
Characterizing the role of Elevated dNTP pools in sensitizing the replisome
This project explores how imbalances in the building blocks of DNA contribute to errors in our genetic code, which can lead to cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11369749 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies constantly make new cells, and each time, our DNA must be copied perfectly. This project looks at how the building blocks of DNA, called dNTPs, can become unbalanced, causing mistakes during DNA copying. These mistakes can overwhelm the cell's natural repair systems, leading to changes that promote cancer growth. By understanding how these imbalances affect DNA copying, we hope to learn more about how cancer develops and evolves.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with various types of cancer, particularly those where DNA replication errors or mutations are a known factor, could eventually benefit from this foundational knowledge.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to DNA replication errors or cancer development may not directly benefit from this specific line of basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new ways to target cancer cells by understanding their unique DNA copying vulnerabilities.
How similar studies have performed: While the general mechanisms of DNA replication and repair are well-established, this specific focus on how elevated dNTP pools fundamentally change replisome activity in the context of cancer represents a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Amherst, United States
- State University of New York at Buffalo — Amherst, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Surtees, Jennifer Anne — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Surtees, Jennifer Anne
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 below.