Understanding how cells repair DNA damage to improve cancer treatments
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of DNA double strand break repair by homologous recombination
Funded at Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-11020618 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our cells fix serious DNA damage that can lead to cancers like breast and ovarian cancer, with the goal of finding new ways to improve treatments and make them safer for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 22, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $445,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM157235-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11020618 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with breast or ovarian cancer, particularly those with known defects in DNA repair pathways.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers unrelated to DNA double-strand break repair mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind the repair of DNA double-strand breaks, which are critical for cell survival and are linked to various cancers, including breast and ovarian cancer. The study focuses on a specific repair pathway called homologous recombination, which is essential for accurately fixing DNA damage. By examining how this process works at a molecular level, the research aims to identify potential targets for new cancer therapies that could enhance treatment effectiveness and reduce side effects for patients. The approach involves detailed biochemical analyses and experimental techniques to understand the interactions between DNA and repair proteins.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by improving the understanding of DNA repair mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting DNA repair mechanisms for cancer therapy, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stinson, Benjamin M — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Stinson, Benjamin M
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.