Understanding how certain proteins help repair DNA and prevent cancer

Mechanisms of DNA Homology-directed Genome Repair and Tumor Suppression

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-10898782

This study is looking at how certain proteins help fix DNA damage, which is important for keeping our genes healthy, especially in people with breast and ovarian cancers, and aims to find new ways to treat these conditions by understanding how these proteins work.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Antonio, United States)
Project IDNIH-10898782 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms of homology-directed DNA repair (HDR), which is crucial for fixing DNA damage and maintaining genomic stability. It focuses on the roles of tumor suppressor proteins such as BRCA1, BARD1, and BRCA2, which are linked to breast and ovarian cancers when mutated. The research team aims to purify these proteins for detailed studies and will collaborate with experts in structural biology to explore how these proteins function in HDR. Additionally, they will conduct chemical screenings to develop potential inhibitors that could be used in future treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, particularly those with known mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes.

Not a fit: Patients without a genetic predisposition to breast or ovarian cancer or those not carrying mutations in the BRCA genes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with breast and ovarian cancers linked to BRCA mutations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding DNA repair mechanisms and their implications for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

San Antonio, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Breast Cancer 1 Gene
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.