How MED12 gene changes lead to uterine fibroids
Molecular basis of MED12 in the pathogenesis of uterine fibroids
This project looks at how changes in the MED12 gene cause uterine fibroids and aims to point to new treatment targets for people with fibroids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11312649 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will study the common MED12 gene changes found in most uterine fibroids and how those changes alter a key regulator of gene activity in uterine cells. They will work with uterine cell samples and lab models to see how mutated MED12 drives stem cells to form tumors. The team will test whether correcting the disrupted CDK8-related pathway can stop tumor-like growth, providing proof-of-concept for targeted therapies. Results will help guide the development of non-surgical treatments aimed at MED12-mutant fibroids.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with uterine fibroids—especially those whose tumors carry MED12 mutations—or those willing to donate uterine tissue for research are the best candidates to participate or benefit.
Not a fit: Patients whose fibroids do not have MED12 mutations or who cannot provide tissue samples are less likely to see direct benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new, non-surgical treatments targeted to the common MED12-mutant fibroids.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory work has shown MED12 mutations disrupt Mediator/CDK8 activity, but translating that finding into patient treatments is still novel and largely untested.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boyer, Thomas G — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Boyer, Thomas 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.