How mitochondrial calcium signaling affects cancer cell death

Modulation of ferroptotic cell death by mitochondrial calcium signaling

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11056709

This study is looking at a special kind of cell death that can help fight cancer by figuring out how calcium in cells affects this process, with the hope of finding new ways to make cancer treatments work better for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11056709 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a specific type of cell death called ferroptosis, which is linked to cancer cells that resist treatment. The focus is on understanding how mitochondrial calcium signaling influences this process and the surrounding tumor environment. By studying the role of a calcium channel known as the mitochondrial calcium uniporter, the researchers aim to uncover new ways to promote ferroptosis in cancer cells, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of cancer therapies. The approach includes genetic manipulation and biochemical analysis to explore the relationship between calcium signaling and cancer cell behavior.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with specific types of cancer that have shown resistance to conventional therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers that are responsive to standard treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance cancer treatment by promoting ferroptosis in resistant cancer cells.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting mitochondrial calcium signaling in ferroptosis is relatively novel, there is emerging evidence that similar strategies have shown promise in enhancing cancer therapies.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions anti-cancer therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.