Understanding how the human body repairs damaged DNA

Deciphering the progression and regulation of human translesion DNA synthesis

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIV HERSHEY MED CTR · NIH-11088759

This study looks at how our cells can keep making DNA even when it's damaged, which is important for understanding how some cancer cells survive and resist treatment, and it could help improve cancer therapies in the future.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorPENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIV HERSHEY MED CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HERSHEY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11088759 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the human genome is replicated despite constant damage from various sources. It focuses on a process called translesion DNA synthesis (TLS), which allows cells to continue replicating DNA even when it is damaged. By studying the specialized DNA polymerases involved in TLS, the research aims to uncover how this process can lead to both cell survival and potential cancer development. The findings could help improve cancer therapies by targeting the mechanisms that allow cancer cells to resist treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers that may be influenced by DNA damage and repair mechanisms.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancers are not related to DNA damage and repair may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by targeting the DNA repair mechanisms that allow cancer cells to survive chemotherapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding DNA repair mechanisms, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

HERSHEY, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy, Cancer Cause, cancer cell, Cancer Etiology, Cancer Induction

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.