Creating synthetic peptides to target a cancer-related protein
Official title: Synthesis and design of macrocyclic collagen mimetic peptides for targeting the cancer-implicated DDR2 kinase
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11080751 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to create special proteins that can help us understand how collagen affects cancer cells, which could lead to better treatments for patients dealing with cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $37,226 |
| NIH project number | 5F30CA290747-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080751 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cancers where DDR2 plays a significant role, such as certain breast cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers unrelated to DDR2 signaling may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing synthetic collagen mimetic peptides that can interact with the DDR2 kinase, a protein involved in cancer progression. By designing and synthesizing these peptides, the project aims to better understand how collagen influences cancer cell behavior and the tumor microenvironment. The approach includes characterizing the physical properties of these peptides and testing their biological effects, which could lead to new insights into cancer treatment strategies. Patients may benefit from advancements in therapies targeting DDR2-related pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for patients with cancers that involve DDR2 signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in cancer biology, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rafizadeh, Diane Naava — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Rafizadeh, Diane Naava
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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.