A platform for discovering new drug targets for treating MYCN-driven neuroblastoma

AlgenML: Drug target discovery platform for transcriptional reprogramming of MYCN-driven neuroblastoma

NIH-funded research Algen Biotechnologies INC · NIH-10326006

This study is working on a new tool to find better treatments for neuroblastoma, a type of cancer linked to the MYCN gene, by looking closely at how cancer cells behave and testing how shutting down certain genes affects their survival.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAlgen Biotechnologies INC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10326006 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel platform called AlgenML to identify new drug targets for neuroblastoma, a type of cancer driven by the MYCN gene. By utilizing advanced single-cell RNA expression profiling, the research aims to map the transcriptional dependencies in cancer cells, allowing for a better understanding of how to reprogram oncogenic signaling networks. The approach involves using CRISPR interference to knock down genes and assess their impact on cancer cell viability, ultimately seeking to find effective treatments for patients with MYCN-driven neuroblastoma.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with MYCN-driven neuroblastoma, particularly those who have not responded well to existing treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with neuroblastoma that is not driven by MYCN or those with advanced-stage disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective therapies for patients with MYCN-driven neuroblastoma, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using single-cell RNA profiling and CRISPR technology is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other cancer types, indicating potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Conditions Anti-Cancer AgentsCancer DrugNeoplastic Disease Chemotherapeutic Agentsanti-cancer druganticancer agent
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.