Understanding how cancer cells use extrachromosomal DNA to grow and resist treatment
eDyNAmiC - FREDHUTCH
This study is looking at how a special type of DNA called extrachromosomal DNA helps cancer grow and resist treatment, with the goal of finding new ways to help patients get better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10625801 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) in cancer, focusing on how these circular DNA structures allow tumors to grow aggressively and evade treatment. By studying the mechanisms of ecDNA formation, function, and regulation, the research aims to uncover new ways to target these cancer-promoting genes. The interdisciplinary team at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is dedicated to advancing our understanding of ecDNA's impact on cancer progression and treatment resistance, which could lead to more effective therapies for patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients whose tumors contain extrachromosomal DNA, which is present in nearly half of all cancer types.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve extrachromosomal DNA may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that specifically target ecDNA in cancer, potentially improving survival rates for patients with aggressive tumors.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of ecDNA has been recognized for decades, recent advancements in understanding its role in cancer are still emerging, indicating that this research is at the forefront of a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Malik, Harmit S. — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Malik, Harmit S.
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.