Understanding how cancer cells protect and repair their DNA during treatment
Mechanisms of replication fork protection and recovery
This study is looking at how a specific pathway in cancer cells helps protect and repair their DNA during treatment, especially for patients with BRCA-related cancers, to find better ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11133398 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the ATR signaling pathway in cancer cells, particularly how it protects single-stranded DNA gaps from degradation and aids in their repair during treatment with PARP inhibitors. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which ATR signaling prevents damage to DNA replication forks, especially in cells with mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. By utilizing advanced DNA assays, the researchers will explore how these pathways function differently in cancer cells compared to healthy cells, which could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with BRCA-related cancers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with breast cancer who have BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations and are undergoing treatment with PARP inhibitors.
Not a fit: Patients without BRCA mutations or those not receiving PARP inhibitor treatments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer therapies that enhance the repair of DNA in patients with BRCA mutations, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding DNA repair mechanisms in cancer cells, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vindigni, Alessandro — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Vindigni, Alessandro
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.