Understanding how cancer genomes evolve rapidly

Mechanisms Driving the Rapid Evolution of Cancer Genomes

NIH-funded research Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-10981027

This study is looking into how certain changes in cancer cells happen quickly during cell division, which can lead to more aggressive cancer growth, and it aims to help us understand these changes better so we can improve treatments for people with cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10981027 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind the rapid evolution of cancer genomes, focusing on a process called chromothripsis, which leads to significant chromosome rearrangements during cell division. By utilizing advanced single-cell genomics technology, the researchers aim to uncover how these genetic changes occur and their implications for cancer development. The study will explore the role of nuclear structures that can cause extensive DNA damage, ultimately affecting how cancer cells grow and divide. This research could provide insights into the fundamental processes that drive cancer progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with aggressive or treatment-resistant cancers that exhibit rapid genomic changes.

Not a fit: Patients with stable, non-aggressive cancers or those who do not exhibit significant genomic alterations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for cancer treatment by targeting the mechanisms that drive genomic instability.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding chromosomal instability 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 Cancer TreatmentCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.