NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how DNA repair enzymes work

Official title: Mechanisms of Base Excision DNA Repair

Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11098931 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain enzymes help fix DNA damage caused by things like aging and the environment, which could help us understand genetic mutations and improve treatments for diseases like cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2024
Project endJuly 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$217,765
NIH project number3R35GM149546-02S1
Project IDNIH-11098931 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of genetic mutations or those at risk for diseases related to DNA damage.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to DNA damage or repair mechanisms may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which DNA repair enzymes function to fix damage caused by various factors, including aging and environmental exposures. By studying these enzymes, the research aims to uncover the biochemical and biophysical principles that are crucial for effective DNA repair. The findings could lead to better understanding of how genetic mutations occur and how they relate to diseases like cancer. The research employs an interdisciplinary approach, integrating structural and biophysical data to provide insights that could improve treatment strategies for conditions involving DNA damage.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
    Ann Arbor, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: O'brien, Patrick J — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
  • Study coordinator: O'brien, Patrick J

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.