Epigenetic changes that help cancers grow and resist treatment
Investigating epigenetic mechanisms of cancer
Researchers are studying how changes in the way genes are packaged and switched on in tumor cells let cancers grow and escape therapies, with the goal of finding new treatment targets.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11173868 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work looks at how chemical and structural changes to DNA and its packaging (epigenetics) change which genes cancer cells turn on or off and how that affects therapy response. In the lab, scientists use tools like CRISPR gene-editing screens, biochemical assays, and cell-based tests to pinpoint the epigenetic changes that drive drug resistance and immune escape. The team focuses on cancers where these changes have already been seen, such as certain leukemias and melanomas, to map vulnerabilities. Results from these experiments could guide development of drugs that reverse harmful epigenetic changes or restore sensitivity to existing treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with cancers known to involve epigenetic alterations—for example some acute lymphoblastic leukemias, uveal melanoma, or treatment-resistant melanomas—would be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: People without cancer or with cancers driven mainly by non-epigenetic mechanisms are unlikely to get direct benefit from this specific lab-based work in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets or strategies to make tumors more responsive to current treatments or to design new therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown that targeting epigenetic factors can restore drug sensitivity in some cancer cell types, but translating those findings into widely effective patient treatments is still early-stage.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bennett, Richard L — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Bennett, Richard L
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.