Finding new ways to target cancer stem cells in lung cancer

Identification of a novel targetable cancer stem cell regulator promoting cancer progression and metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11030328

This study is looking at a type of lung cancer called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to find new ways to treat it by understanding special cancer cells that help the disease grow and resist treatment, and patients may have the chance to try out these new treatments as they are developed.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11030328 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which is a challenging form of lung cancer with low survival rates, especially in advanced stages. The team aims to identify a novel regulator that controls cancer stem cells, which are believed to contribute to cancer progression and resistance to current therapies. By understanding how these stem cells function, the research seeks to develop new treatment strategies that could improve patient outcomes. Patients may be involved in trials that test these new therapies as they become available.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, particularly those who have not responded well to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer or those with other types of lung cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for advanced lung cancer, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting cancer stem cells in other cancers, suggesting that this approach could be beneficial for non-small cell lung cancer as well.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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 anti-cancer therapy
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.