Understanding how DNA damage affects immune response in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer

Defining the role of persistent DNA bridges in tumor-intrinsic immune activation in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-10996074

This study is looking at how certain DNA issues in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer might help the immune system fight the disease better, especially when using a specific type of treatment called PARP inhibitors, to find ways to improve outcomes for patients with these genetic conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-10996074 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of persistent DNA bridges in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) and how they may activate the immune system. It focuses on the effects of PARP inhibitors, which are used to treat BRCA-mutant cancers, and how these treatments can lead to increased DNA damage that may enhance immune responses. By studying the mechanisms behind this interaction, the research aims to find ways to improve treatment outcomes for patients with DNA repair deficiencies. The approach includes laboratory experiments to analyze the relationship between DNA damage and immune activation in cancer cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, particularly those with BRCA mutations.

Not a fit: Patients without hereditary breast and ovarian cancer or those with non-BRCA-related cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies that enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments for patients with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using PARP inhibitors in BRCA-mutant cancers, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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.