Developing new drugs to target specific cancer mutations

Discovery of the next-generation RET-targeted drugs based on nicotinamide scaffold

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA HLTH SCIENCES CTR · NIH-10909131

This study is working on new medications that aim to help people with certain types of cancer that have specific gene changes, making their cancer hard to treat with current options. The researchers are developing special compounds that could better target these gene changes, hoping to improve treatment for patients whose cancers aren't responding to existing therapies.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA HLTH SCIENCES CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (OKLAHOMA CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10909131 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating next-generation drugs that specifically target the RET oncogene mutations found in certain cancers. The approach involves developing nicotinamide-based compounds that can effectively inhibit these mutations, which are resistant to existing treatments. By optimizing these compounds, the research aims to provide a more effective treatment option for patients whose cancers have become resistant to current therapies. The goal is to enhance the efficacy of cancer treatment for patients with RET-altered cancers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that have mutations in the RET oncogene, especially those who have not responded to existing treatments.

Not a fit: Patients without RET mutations or those whose cancers are not driven by the RET oncogene may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients with RET-altered cancers, particularly those resistant to current therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in targeting RET mutations with existing drugs, indicating a promising avenue for developing new treatments.

Where this research is happening

OKLAHOMA CITY, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Genes, Cancer Patient, Cancer Treatment, Cancer cell line

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.