Understanding how repetitive DNA sequences affect cell function and stability
Official title: Repetitive sequences causing genomic instability and cell dysfunction
Funded at Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11004962 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain repeated DNA and RNA sequences can cause problems in our cells, which might lead to diseases, and it’s especially focused on understanding the role of the BRCA1 protein in keeping our genes healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $381,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM152228-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004962 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 with known mutations in the BRCA1 gene.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any genetic predisposition to genomic instability or those not affected by related diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which repetitive DNA and RNA sequences can lead to genomic instability and cell dysfunction. It focuses on how these sequences can interfere with essential cellular processes like DNA replication and protein translation, potentially causing severe consequences such as mutations and diseases. The study aims to explore the role of the BRCA1 protein in maintaining genomic integrity and how variations in its expression might affect cellular health. By identifying the errors that occur during the processing of these sequences, the research seeks to uncover new insights into the prevention of diseases linked to genomic instability.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for diseases caused by genomic instability, including certain cancers and neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of BRCA1 in genomic stability, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gerhardt, Jeannine — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Gerhardt, Jeannine
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Destruction of noncoding RNAs in cancer
This grant funds research to understand how noncoding RNAs are broken down, which could reveal new ways to influence cancer development and progression.
-
Coaching and Navigation by Community Health Workers via Telehealth for High-Risk Hypertension
A program using telehealth and community health workers to help adults with severe hypertension connect to primary care and follow practical, heart-healthy lifestyle tips.
-
Corticospinal neurons and recovery of precise forelimb movement after spinal cord injury
This project studies how spine injuries change brain circuits and whether targeted rehabilitation helps restore precise forelimb movement.
-
Thiamine-boosting therapy for Alzheimer’s: understanding how benfotiamine may reduce harmful AGE in DP patients
A medication-based approach using high-dose vitamin B1 (benfotiamine) is studied to help people with Alzheimer's by reducing harmful sugar-related molecules.
-
Turning APOE4 into protective APOE2 or APOE3Christchurch to help with Alzheimer’s
A patient-facing explanation of a treatment idea that aims to change a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease in the brain.
-
ROMA:Women — comparing single vs multiple arterial grafts in women undergoing CABG
A women-focused clinical trial tests whether using more arterial grafts during heart bypass surgery improves outcomes and quality of life for women.
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.