How loss of the PAX2 gene may start endometrial (uterine) cancer
Mechanisms and Consequences of PAX2 Inactivation in the Initiation of Endometrial Carcinogenesis
This project looks at how losing the PAX2 gene may cause endometrial (uterine) cancer in adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11239141 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From your perspective, researchers are tracking how pockets of cells that lose PAX2 in the lining of the uterus can turn into cancer. They will study human endometrial tissue samples alongside laboratory models, including 3-D organoid cultures, cell lines, and animal models, to see what cellular changes follow PAX2 loss. The team will focus on key molecular pathways (such as PI3K signaling) and compare very early PAX2-negative glands to full tumors to map the steps of cancer initiation. Their approach is meant to reveal early markers or vulnerabilities that could be used for prevention, early detection, or new treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with endometrial cancer, precancerous endometrial changes, or those at high risk for uterine cancer would be the most relevant candidates to provide tissue or join related studies.
Not a fit: People without endometrial disease or not at elevated risk for uterine cancer are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to earlier detection methods or new targets to prevent or treat endometrial cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has repeatedly found PAX2 loss in endometrial cancers, but turning that observation into clear mechanisms, early tests, or treatments remains largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Castrillon, Diego H — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Castrillon, Diego H
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.