Understanding how anti-cancer drugs called mitomycins damage cancer cell DNA
Identification of critical cellular pathways triggered by mitomycins interstrand crosslinks
This project aims to understand how certain anti-cancer drugs called mitomycins stop cancer cells from growing, especially in cancers where a protective protein called p53 isn't working.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | John Jay College of Criminal Justice NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124617 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are exploring how anti-cancer drugs called mitomycins create specific damage in cancer cell DNA, known as interstrand crosslinks, to stop their growth. Our work focuses on how different types of these DNA damages lead to cell death or stop the cell cycle, particularly in cancer cells that lack a functioning p53 protein. We are studying mitomycin C, a drug already used in clinics, along with two related compounds, to see how their unique DNA damage patterns affect cancer cells. By understanding these differences, we hope to learn how to better target specific cancer cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational laboratory work does not involve direct patient participation but aims to benefit future patients with cancers that might be treated with mitomycin-like drugs, particularly those with p53 mutations.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not involve the pathways or drug types being studied in this basic laboratory research may not directly benefit from this specific project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to use existing anti-cancer drugs or develop new ones that are more effective against specific types of cancer, especially those resistant to current treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that different mitomycin drugs have varying effects on cancer cells and p53 signaling, providing a foundation for this deeper investigation into their mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Champeil, Elise — John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- Study coordinator: Champeil, Elise
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.