Understanding how genes keep our cells stable
Genetic regulation of genome stability in yeast
This project explores how genetic changes in yeast can lead to instability, helping us learn about how cancer starts in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11095833 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' cells need to keep their genetic material stable to stay healthy, but sometimes changes happen that can lead to diseases like cancer. This project uses yeast, a simple organism, to understand the basic ways that cells become genetically unstable. By studying yeast, we can uncover fundamental processes that might also be at play when human cells develop problems. This work helps us learn more about how genetic errors contribute to the start of cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future studies building on this work could benefit individuals at risk for or living with cancer related to genetic instability.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention will not find direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide foundational knowledge about how genetic instability leads to cancer, potentially guiding future strategies for prevention or treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work using yeast models has successfully identified mechanisms relevant to human conditions, such as microsatellite instability observed in hereditary colorectal cancer.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Petes, Thomas — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Petes, Thomas
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 below.