How blocking a specific protein may help treat colon cancer

Impact of CLDN1 inhibition on chemoresistance and metastasis of colon cancer

NIH-funded research University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-11291157

This study is looking at a protein called claudin-1 that helps colon cancer spread, and it’s testing a new treatment that might make chemotherapy work better and stop the cancer from spreading further, all to help people with advanced colon cancer feel better and live longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11291157 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of claudin-1, a protein that is linked to the spread of colon cancer, and how inhibiting it could reduce resistance to chemotherapy and metastasis. The study involves extensive laboratory work, including tests on cancer cell lines and mouse models, to evaluate the effectiveness of a newly developed small molecule inhibitor called PDS-0330. By understanding the mechanisms behind claudin-1's influence on cancer progression, the research aims to develop targeted therapies that could improve outcomes for patients with advanced colon cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer who are experiencing resistance to current chemotherapy treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage colon cancer or those who are not resistant to chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy for colon cancer patients, particularly those with metastatic disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Kansas City, 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.
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.