Understanding how certain proteins help prevent cancer by repairing DNA
Official title: Functions of BRCA1 and RAD51 Paralogs in Genome Stability and Tumor Suppression via Homologous Recombination
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11034131 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins, like BRCA1, help fix DNA and what happens when they don't work properly, which can lead to cancer; it's for anyone interested in understanding more about the causes of cancer and how we might find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $368,288 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA276290-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11034131 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer or those who carry mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a genetic predisposition to cancer or those not affected by DNA repair deficiencies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific proteins, including BRCA1 and RAD51 paralogs, in the process of homologous recombination, which is crucial for repairing DNA. By examining how defects in these proteins can lead to chromosomal instability and increase cancer risk, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind these processes. The team will utilize advanced techniques, including single-molecule technologies, to study the interactions and functions of these proteins in DNA repair. This work could provide valuable insights into cancer predisposition and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals at risk of cancers associated with DNA repair deficiencies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the roles of BRCA1 and related proteins in cancer, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kowalczykowski, Stephen Charles — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Kowalczykowski, Stephen Charles
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.