Understanding how cells repair DNA damage during replication
Official title: Supplement: Emerging Mechanisms of Replication-coupled DNA Repair
Funded at California Institute of Technology · NIH-11099442 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our cells fix specific types of DNA damage that can happen when they copy themselves, which is important for preventing problems like cancer and aging, and it aims to find new ways to help improve these repair processes for better health.
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) | $67,796 |
| NIH project number | 3R01GM151410-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11099442 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic predispositions to cancer or those suffering from conditions like Fanconi anemia, which is characterized by bone marrow failure due to defective DNA repair.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to DNA repair mechanisms or those not affected by cancer or aging-related diseases 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 mutations and chromosomal rearrangements, which are linked to cancer and aging. The study explores how certain proteins and pathways work together to repair this damage, potentially preventing the harmful effects of ICLs. By using advanced cellular models, the research aims to uncover new insights into DNA repair processes that could inform future therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cancer and conditions related to aging by enhancing our understanding of DNA repair mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, particularly in relation to interstrand cross-links, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and promising.
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.