Creating new molecules to target and cleave specific proteins for cancer treatment
Development of Caspase Cleavage Targeting Chimeras (CACTACs) for Targeted Protein Cleavage
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER · NIH-10992667
This study is looking at new ways to make cancer treatments work better by creating special compounds that can target and break down proteins that help cancer cells survive, which could lead to more effective therapies for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10992667 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative compounds called caspase cleavage targeting chimeras (CACTACs) that can selectively cleave proteins involved in cancer cell survival. By utilizing a natural product, piperlongumine, the researchers aim to enhance the effectiveness of existing cancer therapies by targeting specific proteins that promote cancer cell growth. The study employs advanced technologies to identify the caspases involved in this process and to design new CACTACs that can effectively trigger cell death in cancer cells. Patients may benefit from more effective cancer treatments that specifically target the proteins that help tumors survive.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that are driven by proteins like Bcl-xL, which are targeted by the CACTACs being developed.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers not associated with the targeted proteins or those who are not responsive to caspase-mediated therapies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer therapies that specifically target and eliminate cancer cells.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise with similar approaches using targeted protein degradation strategies, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER — SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LYU, DONGWEN — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER
- Study coordinator: LYU, DONGWEN
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.
Conditions: anti-cancer, anti-cancer therapy