Understanding DNA Repair in Cancer Cells
Mesoscale and Nanoscale Technologies Integrated by Structures for DNA Repair Complexes (MANTIS-DRC)
This work aims to understand how cancer cells repair their DNA to help us find new ways to treat advanced cancers and overcome treatment resistance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11228540 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Cancer often involves problems with how cells repair their DNA, leading to genomic instability. While many successful cancer treatments work by damaging DNA, cancer cells can sometimes find ways to repair themselves and become resistant. This project looks closely at the structures and processes cancer cells use for DNA repair, including how they respond to RNA damage, choose repair pathways, and sense changes in their energy levels. By combining advanced predictions with whole genome information, we hope to uncover new weaknesses in cancer cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for future patients with advanced cancers who may benefit from new, more targeted therapies.
Not a fit: Patients will not receive direct benefit from this basic science research, as it focuses on understanding disease mechanisms rather than immediate treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the development of more effective anti-cancer drugs and strategies to prevent or overcome treatment resistance in patients with advanced cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Existing DNA-damaging cancer therapies have shown success, and this renewed grant builds upon previous findings to further understand and target DNA repair mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tainer, John a. — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Tainer, John a.
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.