Engineering proteins to control cell signaling in cancer

Engineering protein-specific proteases: targeting signaling proteins

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK · NIH-11041284

This study is working on creating special proteins that can help control certain signals in cancer cells, especially those related to the RAS family, with the hope of finding new ways to treat cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK (nih funded)
Locations1 site (COLLEGE PARK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11041284 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing specialized proteases that can specifically target and control signaling proteins involved in cancer, particularly the RAS family of proteins. The approach involves identifying key dynamic regions within these proteins and engineering proteases that can activate or inhibit their function. By using advanced techniques such as protein engineering, enzymology, and cell biology, the researchers aim to create tools that can modulate signaling pathways in human cell cultures, potentially leading to new cancer treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with bladder cancer or those whose tumors are driven by RAS signaling mutations.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers not associated with RAS signaling or those who do not have active RAS mutations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that more effectively target cancer signaling pathways, improving treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting RAS signaling pathways, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment.

Where this research is happening

COLLEGE PARK, 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: Bladder Cancer, Cancer Model, Cancer cell line, CancerModel

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.