Understanding how certain DNA polymerases maintain accuracy during DNA repair
Official title: Mechanisms for the high fidelity of translesion synthesis by Y-family DNA polymerases in human cells
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-10983784 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in our cells help fix DNA mistakes while copying it, which is really important for keeping our cells healthy, and it aims to understand how these proteins work together to do this accurately, especially in normal cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $388,626 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM148364-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983784 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of cancer or those concerned about chromosomal instability.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with established cancer diagnoses may not directly benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how Y-family DNA polymerases, which are crucial for DNA repair, manage to replicate DNA accurately despite their tendency to make errors. The study will explore the cellular mechanisms and protein interactions that help these polymerases achieve high fidelity during translesion synthesis, a process that allows DNA replication to continue past damaged areas. By employing various genetic, biochemical, and structural techniques, the research aims to uncover the factors that enhance the accuracy of these polymerases in human cells, particularly in non-cancerous contexts.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of DNA repair mechanisms, potentially informing cancer prevention strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding DNA repair mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment and prevention.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Prakash, Louise — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Prakash, Louise
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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.