Understanding how human cells repair their DNA

Molecular Mechanisms of Human Homologous Recombination

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · CORNELL UNIVERSITY · NIH-11124779

This project explores how our cells naturally fix damaged DNA, a process crucial for preventing diseases like cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCORNELL UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ITHACA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11124779 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Our bodies are constantly exposed to things that can damage our DNA, and this damage can lead to serious health issues like cancer. Fortunately, our cells have natural repair systems, such as homologous recombination, that help fix these dangerous breaks. This project aims to understand the detailed steps of how human cells choose the correct DNA template to repair these breaks, focusing on the many proteins that control this complex process. By learning more about how these repair systems work in humans, we hope to find new ways to protect our cells and prevent disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future clinical applications may target individuals with specific cancers or those at high risk due to DNA repair deficiencies.

Not a fit: Patients looking for immediate new treatments will not directly benefit from this foundational laboratory work.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Successfully understanding these repair mechanisms could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating cancers by improving how we protect our DNA.

How similar studies have performed: While DNA repair mechanisms are well-studied in simpler organisms, this project focuses on the less understood, specific processes within human cells.

Where this research is happening

ITHACA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers, DNA Injury

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.