Understanding how cells repair DNA damage during replication
Official title: Emerging Mechanisms of Replication-coupled DNA Repair
Funded at California Institute of Technology · NIH-10895429 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our cells fix specific types of DNA damage that can happen when they copy themselves, which is important for understanding how to prevent serious issues like cancer and aging.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pasadena, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $334,588 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM151410-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10895429 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of cancer or genetic predispositions to conditions like Fanconi anemia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no known genetic predispositions to DNA repair disorders or those without cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which cells repair DNA damage that occurs during replication, particularly focusing on a type of damage known as interstrand cross-links (ICLs). These lesions can block DNA unwinding and lead to serious consequences like cancer and aging. The study explores how certain proteins and pathways work together to resolve these ICLs without causing further damage to the DNA. By using advanced laboratory techniques, the research aims to uncover new insights into DNA repair processes that could inform future treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for cancer and conditions related to DNA repair deficiencies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, but this specific approach to ICL repair is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Semlow, Daniel — California Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Semlow, Daniel
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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.