Understanding how tumor suppressors help maintain DNA integrity

Characterizing the role of tumor suppressor phase separation and chromatin organization in maintaining genomic integrity

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10881927

This study looks at how two important proteins, 53BP1 and BRCA1, help keep our DNA healthy and fix any damage, which could lead to new ways to understand and prevent cancer for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10881927 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the roles of two important tumor suppressors, 53BP1 and BRCA1, in maintaining the integrity of our DNA. It focuses on how these proteins interact with DNA repair pathways and how they organize chromatin, which is the material that makes up our chromosomes. By studying the phase separation of these proteins, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms that could prevent mutations and improve cellular health. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how disruptions in these processes could lead to cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, particularly those with mutations in the BRCA1 gene.

Not a fit: Patients without genetic predispositions to DNA repair deficiencies or those not affected by related cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cancers associated with DNA repair deficiencies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the roles of tumor suppressors in DNA repair, indicating that this approach has potential for significant discoveries.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.