Why some body areas get more sun-caused skin cell mutations
The mutational mechanisms shaping melanocytes in human skin
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11231677
Researchers compare DNA changes in pigment cells from different body sites to understand why melanoma shows up more often on the back and shoulders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11231677 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, the team collects pigment cells (melanocytes) from different parts of the skin and sequences their DNA to count and catalog mutations linked to sun exposure. They compare cells taken from frequently sun-exposed sites (like the head/neck) with intermittently exposed sites (like the back) within the same people. The researchers will look for molecular mechanisms that make some melanocytes accumulate mutations faster than others. Findings may point to new ways to slow mutation buildup and lower melanoma risk in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are adults willing to provide small skin samples or allow access to donated skin from different body sites, ideally with a range of sun-exposure histories.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatment for advanced melanoma should not expect direct therapeutic benefit from this basic research project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new prevention strategies or molecular approaches to slow mutation accumulation and reduce melanoma risk.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genomic studies have mapped mutations in normal skin cells and shown site-specific differences, but translating that knowledge into prevention is largely new and still untested.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHAIN, ALAN HUNTER — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: SHAIN, ALAN HUNTER
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.