Understanding how circular DNAs contribute to cancer development

Investigating the roles of oncogenic extrachromosomal circular DNAs in cancer

NIH-funded research Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research · NIH-10889276

This study is looking at how special circular DNA pieces in cancer cells might help tumors grow and become tougher against treatments, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding more about cancer and finding better ways to fight it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10889276 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of extrachromosomal circular DNAs (ecDNAs) in cancer, focusing on how these circular DNA structures can lead to increased oncogene expression and tumor evolution. By utilizing advanced genetic engineering techniques and mouse models, the study aims to track and manipulate ecDNAs to understand their dynamics during tumor formation and progression. The research seeks to uncover the mechanisms by which ecDNAs contribute to drug resistance and aggressive cancer phenotypes, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with advanced cancers that exhibit aggressive characteristics or drug resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers or those not exhibiting oncogenic amplification may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating aggressive cancers by targeting the mechanisms driven by ecDNAs.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of circular DNAs in cancer, but this specific approach is relatively novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 Advanced CancerCancer GenesCancer cell lineCancer-Promoting 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.