Exploring a new target in cancer therapy related to the proline cycle

Investigating the Proline Cycle as a Potential Cancer Therapy Target

NIH-funded research University of Missouri-Columbia · NIH-10981164

This study is looking at a process in cancer cells that helps them grow and survive, and it's trying to find new ways to stop that by testing small molecules that could become new cancer treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10981164 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the proline cycle, a metabolic pathway that influences how cancer cells grow and survive. By focusing on specific enzymes involved in this cycle, the study aims to identify potential drug targets that could be used to develop new cancer therapies. The researchers will create and test small molecules that can inhibit these enzymes, with the goal of disrupting cancer progression. Initial findings from cellular and animal models have shown promise, indicating that this approach could lead to effective treatments for cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with metastatic breast cancer or other cancers where the proline cycle is upregulated.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancers do not involve the proline cycle may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that specifically target cancer cell metabolism, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be promising.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, 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.
Conditions Animal Cancer ModelAnti-Cancer Agents
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.