A new medicine for lung cancer caused by specific gene changes
Official title: Novel inhibitor for oncogenic RAS for lung cancer
Funded at Auburn University at Auburn · NIH-11109511 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Scientists are working to create a new medicine that targets a specific gene change called RAS, which often causes lung cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Auburn University at Auburn NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Auburn, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 1, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $381,222 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA254197-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11109511 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
This foundational laboratory research is relevant for patients with lung cancer caused by specific RAS gene mutations, particularly those in early stages.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose lung cancer is not driven by RAS gene mutations would likely not benefit from this specific treatment approach.
What this research studies
Many lung cancers are caused by a gene called RAS becoming overactive, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and spread. Previous attempts to develop medicines for RAS have been difficult because the protein is hard to target. This project is focused on creating a brand new type of medicine, called MCI-062, that can directly block the overactive RAS protein. By finding a way to stop RAS, we hope to prevent or treat lung cancer more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this new medicine could offer a much-needed treatment option for people with lung cancer driven by specific RAS gene changes.
How similar studies have gone: While previous broad attempts to target RAS were unsuccessful, recent clinical trials for very specific RAS mutations have shown promise, validating this general approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Auburn University at Auburn
Auburn, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Piazza, Gary a — Auburn University at Auburn
- Study coordinator: Piazza, Gary a
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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.