How EML4-ALK protein droplets drive ALK-positive lung cancer
Dissecting the role and mechanism of EML4-ALK condensates in oncogenic signaling and tumor growth
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11298982
Seeing if blocking EML4-ALK protein condensates can lead to better treatments for people with ALK-positive lung cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11298982 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at how certain ALK fusion proteins (like EML4-ALK) form membraneless protein droplets inside cells that help tumors grow. Researchers will dissect the biochemical and cellular steps by which these condensates change signaling compared with normal receptors, using molecular and cell biology approaches. The team will compare these mechanisms across related oncogenic fusions and use preclinical models to link the condensates to drug resistance. The goal is to reveal new vulnerabilities that could be targeted to improve therapies for patients with ALK-driven lung cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with non-small cell lung cancer that tests positive for ALK rearrangements (for example, EML4-ALK fusion) would be the most relevant group.
Not a fit: People whose tumors do not carry ALK fusions or who have other cancer types are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to overcome resistance and improve treatment options for people with ALK-rearranged lung cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Existing ALK inhibitors have helped many patients, but the idea that phase-separated protein condensates drive signaling is a newer concept with limited clinical testing so far.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BIVONA, TREVER G — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: BIVONA, TREVER G
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.
Conditions: Cancer Cause