How EGFR changes help glioblastoma cells survive membrane stress
EGFR signaling network adaptations to overcome RAS-induced membrane stress in glioblastoma
Looking at whether a common EGFR change called EGFRvIII helps glioblastoma tumors avoid a damaging membrane stress so researchers can find new ways to target those tumor cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11172295 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work focuses on a common EGFR alteration in glioblastoma (EGFRvIII) and how it may protect tumor cells from a destructive membrane stress caused by RAS signaling. The team will map protein-protein interactions inside tumor cells and build computer models of the EGFR signaling network. They will test model predictions in laboratory glioblastoma cell systems (and possibly related preclinical models) to see which interactions prevent cell death by methuosis. By combining network modeling with lab experiments, the researchers hope to reveal specific proteins or cellular locations that let tumors survive.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with glioblastoma—especially those whose tumors show EGFR amplification or the EGFRvIII mutation—would be most relevant to the findings or any related future trials.
Not a fit: Patients whose tumors lack EGFR alterations or who have other types of brain tumors are less likely to see direct benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could identify new molecular targets to make glioblastoma cells more vulnerable and guide development of therapies that kill tumor cells more effectively.
How similar studies have performed: Many prior studies have described EGFR and EGFRvIII biology in glioblastoma but clinical targeting of EGFRvIII has been challenging, so combining network modeling with lab testing is a relatively novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lazzara, Matthew J — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Lazzara, Matthew J
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.