Finding better ways to treat tumors with overactive cell growth pathways
Project 1: Identifying new therapeutic avenues to selectively target tumors with uncontrolled mTORC1 activation
This work explores new ways to target and treat cancers, especially those related to conditions like Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, where current treatments don't fully stop tumor growth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11168739 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Current medicines for tumors with overactive cell growth pathways, like those seen in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, often have limited success and tumors can grow back quickly. This project aims to understand why these treatments aren't more effective by looking closely at how tumors respond at a molecular level. We are exploring changes in how genes are used, how tumors get their energy, and how cells signal to each other when these pathways are active or blocked. The goal is to uncover new strategies to make treatments more powerful and lasting for patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for adult patients aged 21 and older who have tumors with uncontrolled mTORC1 activation, such as those with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex.
Not a fit: Patients whose tumors do not involve uncontrolled mTORC1 activation or who are not adults may not directly benefit from this specific research focus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more effective and longer-lasting treatments for various cancers, particularly those linked to conditions like Tuberous Sclerosis Complex.
How similar studies have performed: Existing mTOR inhibitors have shown some success but with limitations, indicating a need for novel approaches like those explored here to improve patient outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kwiatkowski, David J. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kwiatkowski, David J.
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.