Understanding how BRCA2 mutations lead to cancer

Mechanisms Underlying Replication Stress And Genome Instability Upon BRCA2 Deficiency

NIH-funded research University of Massachusetts Boston · NIH-10902057

This study is looking at how normal cells turn into cancer cells in people with BRCA2 mutations, which raise the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, to find ways to prevent cancer from developing.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Massachusetts Boston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10902057 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms that cause normal cells to become cancerous in individuals with BRCA2 mutations, which significantly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. By examining the accumulation of specific DNA damage and the failure of repair processes in these cells, the study aims to uncover the early steps that lead to tumor formation. The researchers will utilize patient-derived tissue to explore these processes and identify potential preventive strategies. This work could provide critical insights into how to reduce cancer incidence in BRCA2 mutation carriers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who carry BRCA2 mutations and are at increased risk for breast and ovarian cancers.

Not a fit: Patients without BRCA2 mutations or those who do not have a family history of related cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new preventive strategies for individuals with BRCA2 mutations, potentially reducing their risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding DNA repair mechanisms in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Breast Cancer
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.