A new way to treat lung cancer with a specific genetic change

Targeting SMARCA2 as a therapeutic strategy in SMARCA4 mutant lung cancer

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11109644

This research is exploring a new medicine to help patients with a type of lung cancer that has a specific genetic mutation called SMARCA4.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11109644 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Lung cancer remains a leading cause of death, and many patients still need better treatment options. This project focuses on a particular type of non-small cell lung cancer where a gene called SMARCA4 is mutated, which happens in a significant number of cases. Researchers have found that targeting a related gene, SMARCA2, could be a promising approach for these specific cancers. We are developing a new type of medicine, called YD23, designed to specifically break down SMARCA2, and early results show it can stop the growth of SMARCA4-mutant lung cancer cells. The goal is to gather more information to prepare this new medicine for future use in patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is focused on patients with non-small cell lung cancer who have a specific genetic mutation in the SMARCA4 gene.

Not a fit: Patients whose lung cancer does not have the SMARCA4 mutation may not benefit from this specific therapeutic approach.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new, targeted treatment option for patients with SMARCA4-mutant lung cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific molecule YD23 is novel, previous research and early findings from this team suggest that targeting SMARCA2 could be an effective strategy for SMARCA4-mutant cancers.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.