Finding natural compounds to prevent liver tumors
Discovery of novel natural TEAD inhibitors for the chemoprevention of liver tumors
This study is looking for natural substances from Hawaii and other places that might help stop liver cancer from developing, especially for people who have conditions like chronic hepatitis or liver cirrhosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Hawaii at Hilo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hilo, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088906 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on discovering new natural products that can inhibit specific proteins involved in the development of liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The study aims to explore microorganisms from Hawaii and other natural sources to identify compounds that could prevent liver cancer in individuals at risk. By targeting the TEAD-YAP/TAZ complex, which plays a significant role in tumor formation, the research seeks to develop effective prevention strategies for HCC. Patients with chronic hepatitis B or C infections, liver cirrhosis, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease may benefit from these findings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic hepatitis B or C infections, liver cirrhosis, or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Not a fit: Patients without any risk factors for liver cancer or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new preventive treatments for liver cancer, significantly improving outcomes for at-risk patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using natural products for cancer prevention is established, the specific targeting of TEAD in liver cancer prevention is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Hilo, United States
- University of Hawaii at Hilo — Hilo, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cao, Shugeng — University of Hawaii at Hilo
- Study coordinator: Cao, Shugeng
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.