Developing new antibodies to target a specific protein in cancer cells

Novel biologic therapeutics targeting vacuolar ATPase localized on plasma membrane

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11112635

This study is working on creating special antibodies that can target a specific protein linked to aggressive cancers caused by the KRAS gene, with the goal of making cancer treatments safer and more effective for patients by reducing side effects on healthy cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11112635 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to create novel antibodies that specifically target the plasma membrane vacuolar ATPase (pmVATPase), a protein linked to certain aggressive cancers driven by the KRAS gene. By focusing on pmVATPase, the project seeks to improve the selectivity of cancer treatments, reducing toxicity associated with current therapies that affect normal cell functions. The approach involves understanding the 3D structure of pmVATPase to design effective antibodies that can minimize harm to healthy cells while attacking cancer cells. This innovative method could lead to more effective anti-cancer therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with KRAS-driven cancers that are difficult to treat with existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers not driven by KRAS or those who do not express pmVATPase may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more targeted and less toxic cancer treatments for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting specific proteins in cancer therapy, but this approach focusing on pmVATPase is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Anti-Cancer Agentsanti-cancer druganti-cancer therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.