Effects of a drug used for viral infections on colon cancer
Reverse transcriptase inhibitor effects on the mobilome of colon cancer
This study is looking at how a type of medicine called NRTIs, usually used for viral infections, might help fight colon cancer by stopping certain RNA elements from changing cancer cells, and it includes tests in the lab and a clinical trial for patients with advanced colorectal cancer to see how the treatment works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10759018 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), typically used to treat viral infections, can impact colon cancer by blocking the retrotransposition of repetitive RNA elements that may alter the cancer genome. The study utilizes preclinical models, including cell lines and mouse xenografts, to assess the anti-cancer effects of these drugs. Additionally, a Phase II clinical trial is underway to evaluate the effects of the NRTI 3TC in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, with biopsies taken before and after treatment to analyze changes at the molecular level.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer who are undergoing treatment.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage colorectal cancer or those not receiving treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel therapeutic approach for treating colon cancer by repurposing existing antiviral medications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating potential for significant advancements in cancer treatment.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ting, David Tsai — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ting, David Tsai
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.