Finding new ways to target genes that drive melanoma growth
Official title: Identification of Covalent Transcriptional Dependencies in Melanoma
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11117136 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes can cause melanoma to grow, and it aims to find new ways to create treatments that can stop this cancer from spreading, especially by targeting a specific gene called SOX10.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | June 14, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $670,836 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA285415-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11117136 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with melanoma, particularly those whose tumors exhibit specific genetic alterations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with melanoma that does not involve the targeted genetic factors or those who have already exhausted all treatment options may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to melanoma, focusing on identifying specific genes that, when altered, promote tumor growth. The team uses advanced chemical techniques to analyze over 300 cancer models, aiming to discover new druggable targets among transcription factors that are currently considered undruggable. By pinpointing ligandable sites in these genes, particularly the SOX10 transcription factor, the research seeks to develop small molecule inhibitors that could effectively disrupt melanoma cell proliferation. This approach could lead to innovative treatments for patients with melanoma.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new targeted therapies for melanoma, improving treatment options for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting similar genetic pathways in cancer, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bar-Peled, Liron — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Bar-Peled, Liron
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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.