Understanding how DNA changes lead to cancer and other diseases
Mechanism of transcription-associated genome instability
This study is looking at why some parts of our DNA change more often than others, which can lead to diseases like cancer, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these changes happen and what they might mean for future treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10861756 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind genome instability, which can lead to diseases like cancer. The team focuses on how certain regions of DNA, known as hotspots, experience higher rates of mutations and changes during processes like transcription and replication. By studying the interactions between various proteins and DNA, the researchers aim to uncover why these changes occur more frequently in actively transcribed areas of the genome. This work could provide insights into the fundamental processes that drive genetic diseases and inform future therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of cancer or those diagnosed with genetic conditions that predispose them to genomic instability.
Not a fit: Patients with stable genomes and no history of genetic disorders or cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cancers by targeting the mechanisms that cause genome instability.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the mechanisms of DNA damage and repair can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Nayun — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Kim, Nayun
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.