Understanding how DNA repair works in cells exposed to environmental toxins
Official title: Investigating XRCC1 coordination with DNA polymerase beta in chromatin during BER
Funded at University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-10903090 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our cells fix damage to their DNA caused by harmful substances in the environment, focusing on specific proteins that help with this repair, which could help us understand how to keep our DNA healthy and prevent diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $37,460 |
| NIH project number | 1F31ES036459-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10903090 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to environmental toxins and may be at risk for diseases related to DNA damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to environmental toxins or do not have conditions related to DNA damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms of DNA repair in cells that have been damaged by reactive oxygen species from environmental toxins. It focuses on the base excision repair (BER) pathway, particularly the roles of DNA polymerase beta and the XRCC1 protein in repairing oxidative DNA damage within chromatin. By studying how these proteins interact and function in the complex environment of chromatin, the research aims to uncover critical insights into the efficiency of DNA repair processes. This could lead to a better understanding of how cells maintain genomic stability and prevent disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of DNA repair mechanisms, potentially leading to improved strategies for preventing mutations and diseases caused by DNA damage.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, but this specific focus on XRCC1 and DNA polymerase beta in chromatin is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Medical Center
Kansas City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thompson, Spencer — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Thompson, Spencer
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.