Finding hidden paired genes in cancer to unlock new treatment targets
Expanding the cancer paralog genetic interaction map to enable precision oncology
['FUNDING_R01'] · FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER · NIH-11284037
This project uses advanced gene-editing screens to find pairs of related genes that create hidden weaknesses in lung and other cancers so new precision treatments can be developed for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11284037 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are using CRISPR gene-editing to turn off combinations of related genes (called paralogs) in cancer cells grown in the lab to reveal vulnerabilities that single-gene tests miss. They will run large-scale, multiplexed knockout screens across cancer models to map genetic interactions that could point to drug targets. The team aims to expand a cancer 'paralog interaction map' that helps prioritize targets for future therapies and precision medicine. This work is laboratory-focused and designed to guide later drug development and clinical trials rather than provide immediate treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with non-small cell lung cancer or other solid tumors—particularly those without known druggable mutations or whose disease has become resistant to current therapies—could benefit from future clinical advances arising from this work.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers already have effective, well-matched targeted therapies or whose tumor types are not included in the models studied may not see direct benefits from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new drug targets and lead to more personalized treatment options for people with lung and other cancers, especially when current biomarkers are lacking or resistance has developed.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genome-wide CRISPR screens have identified cancer vulnerabilities, but focused, multiplexed paralog screens are a newer approach that may reveal targets missed by single-gene methods.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BERGER, ALICE — FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER
- Study coordinator: BERGER, ALICE
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.
Conditions: Anti-Cancer Agents