Understanding how cells choose to repair DNA damage in cancer
Role of XPD in DNA Damage Response Pathway Choice
This research explores how cells decide whether to fix damaged DNA or self-destruct, which is important for developing new ways to fight cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11115847 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' cells constantly face damage to their DNA, which can lead to diseases like cancer if not handled correctly. Cells have a built-in system to either repair this damage or, if it's too severe, trigger a process called apoptosis, where the cell eliminates itself. This project aims to uncover the exact signals that make a cell choose between repairing its DNA and undergoing self-destruction. By focusing on a protein called XPD, we hope to better understand this critical decision point, especially as it relates to how cancers develop and respond to treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients with various types of cancer, as it explores basic cellular mechanisms that underpin cancer development and treatment responses.
Not a fit: Patients without cancer or those whose cancer does not involve these specific DNA damage response pathways may not directly benefit from this particular line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for cancer treatment by helping us understand how to encourage cancer cells to self-destruct or become more sensitive to existing therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this research group has already identified the XPD protein as playing a central role in triggering cell self-destruction in response to DNA damage.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rogers, Faye a — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Rogers, Faye a
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.