Understanding how RAD51 paralogs affect cancer risk and DNA repair
Official title: RAD51 paralog function in cancer predisposition and genome integrity
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11044983 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help fix DNA damage, which is important for keeping our genes healthy and preventing cancer, especially in people with breast and ovarian cancer, to see how changes in these proteins might increase cancer risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $416,996 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES031796-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044983 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, particularly those who have undergone genetic testing for RAD51 paralog mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a genetic predisposition to breast or ovarian cancer or those not carrying RAD51 paralog mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of RAD51 paralogs in repairing DNA damage, which is crucial for maintaining genetic stability and preventing cancer. The team aims to identify how mutations in these proteins contribute to cancer predisposition, particularly in breast and ovarian cancer patients. By using various genetic and biochemical methods, they will analyze the function of both normal and mutated RAD51 paralogs to understand their impact on DNA repair mechanisms. This could lead to better insights into how environmental factors and genetic mutations interact to influence cancer risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for cancer prevention and treatment by identifying genetic markers associated with cancer risk.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the function of RAD51 paralogs can lead to significant insights into cancer predisposition, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bernstein, Kara a — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Bernstein, Kara a
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.