Understanding DNA Repair and BRCA2 in Cancer

Homology-directed repair: BRCA2 and RAD51 paralogs

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-11137628

This work aims to understand how certain DNA repair proteins, like BRCA2, function in our bodies and how their loss can lead to cancer and affect treatment.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11137628 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Our bodies have natural ways to fix damaged DNA, a process called homology-directed repair (HDR), which is crucial for keeping our cells healthy. When these repair systems don't work correctly, like when there are changes in the BRCA2 gene, it can lead to genomic instability and increase the risk of cancers such as breast and ovarian cancer. This research explores how these important repair proteins maintain cell health, why they stop working in cancer cells, and how their function might be restored. By understanding these fundamental processes, we hope to find new ways to fight cancer and improve how patients respond to existing treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients with cancers linked to DNA repair defects, particularly those with BRCA2 mutations or similar genetic changes.

Not a fit: Patients without cancers related to DNA repair pathway defects or those not undergoing treatments affected by these pathways may not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing cancer, improving the effectiveness of current cancer therapies, and overcoming treatment resistance.

How similar studies have performed: Many studies have shown the critical role of DNA repair pathways and proteins like BRCA2 in cancer development and treatment response, providing a strong foundation for this work.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer 2 Gene, Breast Cancer Type 2 Susceptibility Gene

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.