Understanding how cancer mutations occur
Official title: Mechanisms of cancer mutations
Funded at Van Andel Research Institute · NIH-10979155 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how things like sunlight and smoking can cause changes in the DNA of cancer cells, helping us understand why different types of cancer develop, which could lead to better ways to prevent and treat them for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Van Andel Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $482,549 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA276031-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979155 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with specific types of cancer, particularly those with known environmental exposure histories.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that do not have identifiable mutational signatures or those without a clear environmental exposure history may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the origins of mutations in cancer genomes, focusing on how specific exposures, such as sunlight and smoking, lead to distinct mutational patterns in various cancers. By analyzing DNA damage and repair mechanisms, the study aims to identify unique mutational signatures associated with different cancer types. Patients may benefit from insights into how their cancer developed, potentially leading to improved prevention and treatment strategies. The research employs advanced DNA mapping techniques to recreate and analyze these mutational signatures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of cancer development and lead to better prevention and treatment options for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully identified mutational signatures linked to environmental exposures, suggesting that this approach has potential for further discoveries.
Where this research is happening
-
Van Andel Research Institute
Grand Rapids, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pfeifer, Gerd P — Van Andel Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Pfeifer, Gerd P
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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.