How disruptions in the body's internal clock affect lung cancer progression
Official title: Disruption of the circadian clock in lung cancer
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-11042170 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called BMAL1, which is part of our body's internal clock, affects non-small cell lung cancer, with the goal of finding out why lower levels of this protein might lead to more aggressive cancer and worse outcomes for patients, using both mice and human samples to explore these connections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $428,791 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA282225-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042170 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, particularly those exhibiting aggressive disease characteristics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of lung cancer or those without significant circadian disruption may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the circadian clock, specifically the BMAL1 protein, in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It aims to understand how the downregulation of BMAL1 is linked to more aggressive cancer behavior and poorer patient outcomes. The study utilizes mouse models and human cancer samples to explore the mechanisms by which circadian disruption influences tumor growth and progression. By identifying the relationship between circadian rhythms and cancer, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that restore normal circadian function in lung cancer patients, potentially improving their prognosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that targeting circadian rhythms can influence cancer progression, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Altman, Brian James — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Altman, Brian James
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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.