Understanding how cells repair damaged DNA sites

Function of HMCES in abasic site repair and tolerance

['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY · NIH-11128767

This study looks at how our cells fix certain types of DNA damage that can lead to serious health problems like cancer, focusing on a special protein called HMCES that helps protect and repair these damaged areas, with the hope that what we learn can lead to better treatments for people affected by DNA damage.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11128767 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how cells manage and repair abasic sites, which are common forms of DNA damage that can lead to serious health issues like cancer. It focuses on a specific protein, HMCES, that plays a crucial role in detecting and protecting these damaged areas in single-stranded DNA. By studying the mechanisms of this repair pathway, the research aims to uncover how cells maintain their genetic stability despite the presence of environmental toxins that can cause DNA damage. Patients may benefit from insights gained in this research that could lead to improved treatments for diseases related to DNA damage.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals exposed to environmental toxins or those with a family history of cancer related to DNA repair deficiencies.

Not a fit: Patients with no history of DNA damage-related conditions or those not exposed to relevant environmental factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cancers caused by DNA damage.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, making this approach a continuation of established scientific inquiry.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.