Understanding how certain proteins affect DNA stability and cancer development
Official title: Biochemical determinants of genome instability induced by eukaryotic topoisomerase II
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11042571 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein, called topoisomerase II, helps keep our DNA stable and how problems with this protein might lead to cancer, with the hope of finding ways to prevent or treat cancers related to these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 15, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $80,165 |
| NIH project number | 1R03CA297372-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042571 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 diagnosed with cancers that exhibit genomic instability.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers unrelated to DNA topoisomerase dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of eukaryotic topoisomerase II in maintaining DNA structure and how its dysfunction can lead to genome instability, which is often associated with cancer. The project focuses on identifying mutations in the topoisomerase protein that may cause persistent DNA breaks and contribute to mutagenesis. By using yeast models, the researchers aim to understand the biochemical mechanisms behind these mutations and their implications for cancer development. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to prevent or treat cancers linked to these genetic changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cancers associated with DNA instability.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the mechanisms of DNA repair and instability can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nitiss, John L — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Nitiss, John L
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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.