How chromosome 3 gains and losses affect squamous cell cancer
Elucidating the Consequences of Chromosome 3 Arm Aneuploidies in Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This research looks at how losing or gaining parts of chromosome 3 changes the behavior of squamous cell cancers to help identify new treatment targets for people with lung, esophageal, or head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11164593 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are using engineered human lung cells that mimic the chromosome 3 changes seen in many squamous cell cancers. They created matched cell lines missing the 3p arm or with extra 3q and will study how those changes alter lipid and PI3K signaling, responses to low oxygen (hypoxia) linked to VHL, and the cells' squamous differentiation and tumor-forming behavior. The team combines genome engineering and molecular studies to connect specific chromosome changes to cancer behaviors. Results could point to pathways or markers useful for future tests or therapies for people with squamous cell carcinoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with squamous cell carcinoma of the lung, esophagus, or head and neck—especially those whose tumors show 3p loss or 3q gain—are the most relevant group for these findings.
Not a fit: Patients with non-squamous cancers or tumors that do not have chromosome 3 arm alterations are less likely to see direct benefits from this research in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular targets or biomarkers tied to chromosome 3 changes that lead to better treatments or diagnostics for squamous cell carcinoma patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory studies have linked chromosome 3 alterations to cancer, but using genome-engineered human cell models to pinpoint affected pathways and therapeutic targets is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor, Alison M. — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Taylor, Alison M.
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.