Understanding how changes in cell packaging affect breast cancer
Altering the chromostasis and genome stability by modulating histone methylation
This research explores how the way our DNA is organized inside cells influences their stability and may contribute to breast cancer, especially in people with BRCA1 gene changes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11109479 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells carefully package DNA into a structure called chromatin, which helps control how genes work and how DNA repairs itself. When this packaging, or 'chromostasis,' is disrupted, it can lead to unstable DNA and potentially cancer. This project focuses on specific chemical tags on DNA packaging proteins, called histones, that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy cells. We want to understand how these tags interact and influence each other, particularly in the context of DNA repair and cell growth. By using models that mimic natural changes in these histone tags, we aim to uncover how these processes go awry in conditions like breast cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit future patients with breast cancer, particularly those whose disease is linked to genetic instability or BRCA1 mutations.
Not a fit: Patients whose breast cancer is not related to chromatin regulation or genome instability may not directly benefit from the specific findings of this particular basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of breast cancer development and potentially new strategies for treatment or prevention, especially for those with genetic predispositions like BRCA1 mutations.
How similar studies have performed: While the general concept of histone modifications is well-established, the precise functional interaction between the specific histone tags (H3K36me3 and H3K27me3) in controlling gene transcription and genome stability is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
Coral Gables, United States
- University of Miami School of Medicine — Coral Gables, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morey, Lluis — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Morey, Lluis
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 below.