Creating a tool to control RAS protein activity in cells
Official title: Developing a Chemically-Controlled RAS Toolset
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10995224 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to control a protein called RAS, which plays a big role in cell growth and survival, especially in certain cancers, to help develop better treatments for people affected by RAS-related diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $44,695 |
| NIH project number | 1F31GM155953-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995224 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with RAS-driven cancers or related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without RAS mutations or those with unrelated cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the RAS protein, which acts as a molecular switch in cells, can be precisely controlled using a new chemical tool. By activating RAS in a controlled manner, researchers aim to study its role in various cellular processes such as cell growth and survival, particularly in the context of cancers driven by RAS. The project involves developing methods to measure how RAS behaves in different cellular environments and how its activity can be influenced by its location within the cell. This could lead to better-targeted therapies for RAS-related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for cancers associated with RAS mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using chemical tools to manipulate protein activity, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Banales Mejia, Fernando — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Banales Mejia, Fernando
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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.