How blocking a specific signaling pathway can help treat HPV-related tumors
Official title: Mechanisms of Papillomavirus Tumor Regression by MEK Signaling Inhibition
Funded at University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-11134336 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how blocking a specific pathway in the body might help shrink tumors caused by HPV, and it’s for anyone interested in new treatments for HPV-related cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $544,768 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA293012-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134336 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with HPV-related tumors or lesions, particularly those who have not responded to existing treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have been vaccinated against HPV and do not have any HPV-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how inhibiting the MEK signaling pathway can lead to the regression of tumors caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind this effect, particularly how it reduces the expression of HPV oncogenes E6 and E7, which are responsible for tumor growth. By using animal models, the research aims to explore the potential of MEK inhibitors to not only suppress tumor growth but also restore the immune response against HPV. This could pave the way for new antiviral therapies specifically targeting HPV-related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective treatments for HPV-related tumors, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with MEK inhibitors in reducing tumor growth in HPV-related models, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
Albuquerque, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ozbun, Michelle a — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
- Study coordinator: Ozbun, Michelle a
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.