How mitochondrial metabolism affects cancer growth
Official title: Mitochondrial Metabolism and Cancer
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10994436 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called MDH2 helps cancer cells grow by affecting their energy production, and it could lead to new treatments for patients by finding ways to target these energy processes in tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $608,491 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA290678-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994436 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with adenocarcinoma or related cancers who are 21 years or older.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those under 21 years old may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mitochondrial metabolism in the growth of cancer cells, particularly focusing on a key enzyme called malate dehydrogenase 2 (MDH2). By studying how MDH2 influences the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and the electron transport chain, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that support tumor growth. The approach includes using murine models to observe the effects of MDH2 absence on tumor development, providing insights into potential metabolic vulnerabilities of cancer cells. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting these metabolic pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that disrupt the metabolic processes of cancer cells, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chandel, Navdeep S — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Chandel, Navdeep S
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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.