Understanding how DNA damage affects cancer development

ATM activation by DNA single-strand breaks

NIH-funded research University of North Carolina Charlotte · NIH-10489679

This study is looking at how damage to DNA from things like pollution and cancer treatments triggers a special protein that helps fix the DNA, and by understanding this process better, we hope to find new ways to help people with cancer and brain diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of North Carolina Charlotte NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlotte, United States)
Project IDNIH-10489679 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how single-strand breaks in DNA, which can be caused by environmental toxins and chemotherapy, activate a protein called ATM that is crucial for DNA repair. By studying these processes in a controlled laboratory setting, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind ATM activation and its role in maintaining genome stability. The findings could lead to better understanding of cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, potentially informing new treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cancer or those exposed to environmental toxins that may cause DNA damage.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to DNA damage or those who do not have a history of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for cancer and other diseases related to DNA damage.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, making this approach promising but still exploring new aspects of ATM activation.

Where this research is happening

Charlotte, 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 Cancersneoplasm/cancerDiseaseDisorderDNA Injury
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.