Finding better treatments for anaplastic thyroid cancer based on genetic mutations
Official title: Developing BRAF mutant and BRAF wild-type selective strategies for radiosensitization in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
Funded at Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope · NIH-11159515 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain gene changes in patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer can affect how well radiation therapy works, with the goal of finding better treatment options that are tailored to each person's unique genetic makeup.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Duarte, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2020 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $462,998 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA246553-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11159515 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with anaplastic thyroid cancer, particularly those with BRAF mutations or TP53 mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of thyroid cancer or those who do not have the specific genetic mutations being targeted may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving treatment options for patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), a type of cancer known for its poor prognosis. The study investigates how specific genetic mutations, particularly in the BRAF gene, affect the cancer's response to radiation therapy. By using targeted therapies that inhibit these mutations, the researchers aim to enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments and reduce the likelihood of cancer recurrence. Patients with different genetic profiles will be evaluated to determine the best approach for radiosensitization, potentially leading to more personalized treatment plans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment strategies for patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer, improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting BRAF mutations in other cancers, suggesting that this approach may also be effective for anaplastic thyroid cancer.
Where this research is happening
-
Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
Duarte, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Terence Marques — Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
- Study coordinator: Williams, Terence Marques
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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.