Understanding how DNA damage affects cancer treatment

Epigenetic mechanisms controlling single-stranded DNA lesion sensitivity and mutagenesis

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10978877

This study is looking at how certain DNA damage in cancer cells can change how well treatments work, with the goal of finding better ways to help patients respond to therapies like alkylating agents and PARP inhibitors.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10978877 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which single-stranded DNA lesions (SSLs) influence cancer treatment outcomes. It focuses on how these lesions, which are common in cancer cells, can lead to mutations that affect tumor growth and response to therapies. By studying the role of specific proteins involved in DNA repair, the research aims to uncover new strategies to enhance the effectiveness of existing cancer treatments, particularly those that use alkylating agents and PARP inhibitors. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more personalized and effective cancer therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that are treated with alkylating agents or those who have mutations affecting DNA repair mechanisms.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve single-stranded DNA lesions or those who are not receiving treatments that target these lesions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer treatments that are more effective at targeting tumors with specific DNA repair vulnerabilities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding DNA repair mechanisms and their implications for cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach has the potential for significant breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
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.