Understanding how changes in our genes lead to disease, especially cancer
The evolution and diversity of mutation, molecular fidelity, and genome structure
This work explores how changes in our genetic code happen and how these changes affect our cells and bodies over time, with a focus on understanding diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121727 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are constantly changing at a cellular level, and sometimes these changes, called mutations, can lead to diseases. This project looks at how these mutations appear in our cells and how they are passed on or changed over time. We want to understand why certain types of cells might be more likely to develop diseases and how the structure of our genes influences the differences we see between people and species. By studying both normal cells and cancer cells, we hope to uncover the basic rules of how these genetic changes contribute to health and illness.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical applications may benefit individuals with various cancers or those at risk for genetic diseases.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us better understand the fundamental causes of diseases like cancer and identify why some cells are more vulnerable, potentially leading to new ways to prevent or treat these conditions.
How similar studies have performed: While the study of mutations in cancer is well-established, this project aims to explore less understood aspects of mutation accumulation in 'normal' cells using novel genomic methods.
Where this research is happening
Berkeley, United States
- University of California Berkeley — Berkeley, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sudmant, Peter Heshedahl — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Sudmant, Peter Heshedahl
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.