Creating mouse models with large chromosome deletions to improve personalized cancer care
Engineering Large Chromosomal Deletions in Mice to Advance Precision Oncology
Researchers are using CRISPR to make mice that mimic big chromosome losses seen in human tumors so findings can guide better treatments for people with cancer.
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 ID | NIH-11295457 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project makes genetically engineered mice that carry large arm-level chromosomal deletions similar to those seen in human cancers. The team uses CRISPR-based genome editing to create these broad deletions and then monitors how tumors form, behave, and respond to treatments in the mice. By studying the combined effects of losing many neighboring tumor suppressor genes, researchers hope to uncover disease mechanisms and treatment vulnerabilities that single-gene studies miss. The findings are intended to point toward targets and strategies for future patient-focused precision oncology trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients whose tumors show large arm-level chromosomal deletions on genomic testing would be most relevant for future trials or therapies informed by this research.
Not a fit: People with cancers driven primarily by single-gene mutations or individuals without cancer are less likely to receive direct benefit from this specific preclinical work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new combined-gene vulnerabilities and guide more effective targeted therapies for patients with tumors that harbor large chromosomal deletions.
How similar studies have performed: Mouse models and focal-deletion studies have previously helped identify tumor suppressor genes, but deliberately engineering very large chromosomal deletions is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Ming — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Ming
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 below.