Understanding how organisms safely break their own DNA
Official title: Mechanisms of programmed chromosome breakage
Funded at New York University · NIH-11012800 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how living things intentionally make breaks in their DNA, which are important for creating diversity and adapting, but can cause health problems if not fixed properly, and it focuses on understanding how these breaks happen during the formation of reproductive cells and in certain DNA areas to help prevent issues like cancer and birth defects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $522,083 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM148223-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012800 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of cancers, birth defects, or unexplained infertility.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to chromosomal abnormalities or DNA repair mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which organisms intentionally create breaks in their DNA, known as DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). These breaks are crucial for genetic diversity and adaptation but can lead to serious health issues if not repaired correctly. The study focuses on two key processes: meiotic recombination, which occurs during the formation of reproductive cells, and programmed changes in ribosomal DNA. By examining these processes, the research aims to uncover how cells manage DSBs to prevent genome instability, which is linked to cancers and birth defects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for genetic disorders, cancers, and infertility.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hochwagen, Andreas — New York University
- Study coordinator: Hochwagen, Andreas
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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.