Understanding how cells repair DNA damage

Elucidating the mechanisms underlying DNA double-strand break repair

NIH-funded research Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-11021685

This study is looking at how our cells fix serious DNA damage that can cause health problems like cancer, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how we might improve these repair processes to help patients stay healthier.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionThomas Jefferson University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11021685 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which cells repair DNA double-strand breaks, a severe type of DNA damage that can lead to serious health issues like cancer and accelerated aging. The project aims to uncover the molecular steps involved in the repair process, focusing on how various proteins and enzymes work together to fix these breaks. By using advanced techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy, the researchers will visualize the assembly and regulation of the repair machinery at the site of DNA damage. This understanding could lead to new strategies for enhancing DNA repair in patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions linked to DNA damage, including certain cancers and accelerated aging syndromes.

Not a fit: Patients with no known issues related to DNA damage or those not experiencing accelerated aging may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for conditions related to DNA damage, such as cancer and age-related diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 progressionCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.