Understanding how BRCA2 mutations lead to cancer
Official title: Mechanisms Underlying Replication Stress And Genome Instability Upon BRCA2 Deficiency
Funded at University of Massachusetts Boston · NIH-10902057 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $336,543 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA273696-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10902057 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who carry BRCA2 mutations and are at increased risk for breast and ovarian cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without BRCA2 mutations or those who do not have a family history of related cancers may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Massachusetts Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pathania, Shailja — University of Massachusetts Boston
- Study coordinator: Pathania, Shailja
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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.