Understanding how a protein interacts with arsenic to cause DNA damage

The Role of Aquaporin 3 in Arsenic-Induced DNA Damage and Mutagenesis

NIH-funded research Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr · NIH-11248214

This study is looking at how a protein called Aquaporin 3 (AQP3) might help explain how small amounts of arsenic can harm our DNA and affect our health, with the goal of finding ways to prevent and treat illnesses related to arsenic exposure.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Station, United States)
Project IDNIH-11248214 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Aquaporin 3 (AQP3) in the way low doses of arsenic can lead to DNA damage and potential health risks. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which AQP3 interacts with arsenic, mapping the specific areas of DNA damage it causes in human cells. By identifying the mutation signatures associated with this interaction, the research seeks to provide insights that could help in the prevention and treatment of diseases linked to arsenic exposure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to arsenic, particularly those living in areas with contaminated drinking water.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to arsenic or those with unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the identification of early biomarkers for predicting long-term health impacts of arsenic exposure.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific interaction of AQP3 with low-dose arsenic is novel, previous research has shown that understanding DNA damage mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in disease prevention and treatment.

Where this research is happening

College Station, 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.
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.