A new targeted treatment for ovarian cancer

Novel targeted therapy for treating Ovarian Cancer

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11143132

This research aims to develop a brand new medicine to help patients with ovarian cancer, especially those whose cancer has come back or stopped responding to current treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Antonio, United States)
Project IDNIH-11143132 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Ovarian cancer is a very serious disease, and while initial treatments often work, the cancer frequently returns and becomes resistant to chemotherapy. This project focuses on creating a new type of targeted therapy to overcome this resistance and eliminate cancer stem cells, which are thought to cause recurrence. Researchers are developing a specific drug called EC359, which has shown promise in laboratory tests by reducing cancer cell growth and promoting their death. The goal is to refine this drug, understand how it works, and prepare it for future testing in people.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is most relevant to patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer, especially those who have experienced recurrence or whose cancer has become resistant to standard chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients without ovarian cancer or those whose cancer responds well to existing treatments may not directly benefit from this specific new therapy.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this new therapy could offer a much-needed treatment option for ovarian cancer patients, particularly those with recurrent or chemotherapy-resistant disease, potentially improving their long-term outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: This project is developing a 'first-in-class' inhibitor, meaning it's a novel approach, though preliminary studies have shown promising activity in lab settings.

Where this research is happening

San Antonio, 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.