Understanding how cells repair damaged DNA caused by environmental pollutants and cancer treatments
Official title: Repair of DNA ends with adducts
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11035166 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our cells fix DNA damage caused by things like pollution and cancer treatments, focusing on a specific type of damage that can lead to serious problems if not repaired, and it aims to help improve cancer treatments and lessen their side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $279,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM141631-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035166 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals exposed to environmental pollutants or undergoing treatment with anti-cancer drugs who may experience DNA damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of exposure to environmental toxins or are not undergoing cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells repair DNA damage caused by environmental pollutants and anti-cancer drugs, specifically focusing on DNA-protein crosslinks that can lead to serious genetic issues if not addressed. The study employs genetic and biochemical methods to explore the role of specific enzymes, such as Apn2, in removing these harmful DNA adducts. By understanding these repair mechanisms, the research aims to uncover how cells maintain genomic stability and prevent cell death. This could provide insights into improving cancer treatment outcomes and reducing the side effects of anti-cancer agents.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing DNA repair mechanisms, potentially reducing the side effects of cancer treatments and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on proteolytic repair of DNA-protein crosslinks is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Sang Eun — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Lee, Sang Eun
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.