Understanding DNA Repair and Genetic Mixing
Molecular analysis of genetic recombination and DNA break repair
This project aims to uncover the fundamental ways our cells repair damaged DNA and mix genetic information, using simple organisms as models.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11073030 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies constantly repair DNA damage and rearrange genetic material, processes crucial for health and reproduction. This project uses well-understood organisms like yeast and bacteria to explore these fundamental cellular activities. By studying how these organisms fix DNA breaks and exchange genetic information, we can learn about similar processes that happen in human cells. The goal is to understand the tiny molecular steps involved, which could help us understand conditions like birth defects or cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve human patients, but its findings could eventually inform future treatments for individuals with genetic conditions or DNA repair disorders.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or direct participation in human trials would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding these basic cellular processes could lead to new insights into human diseases caused by DNA repair errors or issues with genetic inheritance, such as birth defects or certain cancers.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on past achievements in the field, aiming to solve long-standing genetic puzzles like crossover interference, for which a molecular mechanism has been proposed and supported by data.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Gerald R — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Smith, Gerald R
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.