Understanding how mutations in a specific gene lead to cancer

Mechanisms of Genome Instability in Tumors with DNA Polymerase Epsilon Mutations

NIH-funded research University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-10752621

This study is looking at how changes in the POLE gene might cause certain types of colorectal and endometrial cancers to become more unstable and risky, with the hope that understanding these changes can help improve treatments for patients with these cancers.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Omaha, United States)
Project IDNIH-10752621 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of mutations in the POLE gene, which is linked to colorectal and endometrial cancers that exhibit high levels of genetic mutations. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which these mutations contribute to genomic instability and cancer risk. By examining how these mutations affect DNA replication and the function of other cellular mechanisms, the research seeks to provide insights that could lead to better understanding and treatment of these cancers. Patients with these specific cancer types may benefit from the findings as they could lead to new therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with colorectal or endometrial cancers that have been identified to have POLE gene mutations.

Not a fit: Patients without colorectal or endometrial cancers, or those whose cancers are not associated with POLE mutations, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with colorectal and endometrial cancers associated with POLE mutations.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms being investigated are novel, previous research has shown that understanding genetic mutations can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment.

Where this research is happening

Omaha, 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.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancer
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.