Understanding how our bodies fix damaged DNA to prevent diseases
The mutagenic consequences of replication-coupled DNA repair mechanisms
This research looks at how our cells repair DNA damage caused by things in the environment, aiming to understand how these repairs prevent serious health problems like cancer and aging.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11139634 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are constantly exposed to harmful substances from the environment, like pollution and chemicals, which can damage our DNA. When DNA is damaged, it can lead to mutations and instability in our genetic code, potentially causing conditions like developmental disorders, aging, and various cancers. This project focuses on a specific protein called HMCES, which plays a crucial role in fixing certain types of DNA damage during cell replication. We want to discover exactly how HMCES works to prevent these harmful mutations and ensure our DNA is repaired correctly. By studying this process in human cells, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of how our bodies protect themselves from disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not recruiting patients directly but could eventually benefit individuals at risk for or living with conditions caused by DNA damage, such as certain cancers or age-related disorders.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options for existing conditions may not see direct or immediate benefit from this fundamental biological research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating diseases like cancer and age-related conditions that are linked to DNA damage and mutations.
How similar studies have performed: While the general field of DNA repair is well-established, this specific focus on the HMCES protein's role in preventing mutagenesis and genomic instability represents a novel area of exploration.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mehta, Kavi — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Mehta, Kavi
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.