Developing new treatments for breast cancer by targeting specific proteins
Official title: Targeting Metal-Dependent Epigenetic Modulators via MetalloPROTACs
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10867489 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new treatments for breast cancer by creating special molecules that can target and break down specific proteins that help the cancer grow, with the hope of offering patients more effective and focused options for their treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $159,260 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA273632-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867489 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer who may benefit from novel therapeutic strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancer does not involve the targeted proteins may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating innovative molecules that can selectively degrade certain proteins involved in breast cancer progression. By utilizing advanced techniques, the team aims to develop compounds that can effectively target and inactivate oncoproteins, which are proteins that promote cancer growth. The approach involves designing heterobifunctional molecules that bind to metal-dependent enzymes, leading to their degradation and potentially halting tumor growth. Patients may benefit from new treatment options that are more effective and selective than current therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and targeted therapies for breast cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burkart, Michael D. — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Burkart, Michael D.
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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.