NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Creating molecules that can target and destroy cancer proteins

Official title: Evolved Molecules that Destroy Cancer Relevant Proteins

Funded at Foundation for Applied Molecular Evolutn · NIH-10916087 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on new tools that can help target and break down proteins related to cancer, with the goal of making cancer treatments faster and more affordable for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFoundation for Applied Molecular Evolutn
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Alachua, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endAugust 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$215,564
NIH project number1R61CA291117-01
Project IDNIH-10916087 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cancers that express specific proteins targeted by the AEGIS technology, such as breast or liver cancer.

Less likely to help

Patients with cancers that do not express the targeted proteins or those who are not eligible for experimental treatments may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative molecules called AEGISbodies and AEGISCleavers that can bind to and cleave cancer-relevant proteins. By utilizing a unique laboratory evolution technique, the researchers aim to produce these molecules at a significantly lower cost and faster pace than traditional methods. The approach involves using an artificially expanded genetic information system to create highly stable and functional biopolymers that can specifically target cancer cells. Patients may benefit from the advancements in cancer treatment that these new reagents could facilitate.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and affordable cancer treatments by targeting and destroying specific cancer proteins.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using similar molecular targeting approaches in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

  • Foundation for Applied Molecular Evolutn
    Alachua, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Biondi, Elisa — Foundation for Applied Molecular Evolutn
  • Study coordinator: Biondi, Elisa

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.