Understanding how BRCA1 and BARD1 proteins help repair DNA damage

The Mechanistic Role of BRCA1-BARD1 DNA and RAD51 Binding in DNA Double-Strand Break Repair

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER · NIH-11082992

This study is looking at how two proteins, BRCA1 and BARD1, help fix broken DNA, which is really important for keeping our genes healthy, and it could help people with breast and ovarian cancer understand how problems with these proteins might affect their treatment.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11082992 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the roles of the BRCA1 and BARD1 proteins in repairing DNA double-strand breaks, which are critical for maintaining genomic stability. By examining how these proteins interact with DNA and the RAD51 recombinase, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that enable effective DNA repair. The approach involves biochemical experiments and cell-based studies to explore the functions of these proteins in the context of cancer biology, particularly in breast and ovarian cancers. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how defects in these proteins contribute to cancer development and treatment resistance.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, particularly those with known mutations in the BRCA1 or BARD1 genes.

Not a fit: Patients without a genetic predisposition to breast or ovarian cancer or those with unrelated cancer types may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of cancer mechanisms and potential new therapeutic strategies for patients with BRCA1 and BARD1-related cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the roles of DNA repair proteins like BRCA1 and BARD1 can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

SAN ANTONIO, 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 →

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.