Computational and functional screens to find actionable neuroblastoma drivers
Official title: Computational and functional screens to identify actionable neuroblastoma drivers
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11446226 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are using advanced computer analysis and lab tests to find new genes and drug targets in neuroblastoma, aiming to improve outcomes for children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | August 6, 2026 |
| Project end | July 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $685,186 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA307123-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11446226 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Children and young adults with neuroblastoma or tumor biology applicable to the study’s targets.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose tumors do not share the identified drivers or whose tumors are not responsive to the proposed therapies may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project combines big-data genomics with lab-based functional screens and high-throughput drug testing to identify vulnerabilities in neuroblastoma tumors. By integrating AI-driven analyses with experimental validation, it seeks to pinpoint genes and pathways that can be targeted with therapies. The team hopes to develop biomarkers to guide treatment and uncover drug combinations that could improve survival for young patients. If successful, these findings could lead to more precise, effective treatment options for children affected by this cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new targets and drug strategies that improve cure rates for children with neuroblastoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies suggest that integrating genomics with functional screens can reveal actionable targets in cancer, with promising early results in some pediatric tumors.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Skapek, Stephen X — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Skapek, Stephen X
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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.