How mutations in chromatin-remodeling proteins help cancers grow
Cancer-based discovery of novel mechanisms of chromatin control
['FUNDING_R01'] · ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL · NIH-11298997
Researchers are uncovering how mutations in chromatin-remodeling proteins (like SMARCB1 in the SWI/SNF complex) cause cancers such as malignant rhabdoid tumor to find new treatment targets.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11298997 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you or a loved one has a cancer linked to chromatin-control genes, this work looks at the molecular changes that make those cancers grow. The team studies tumor samples and lab models, including genomically simple malignant rhabdoid tumor cells, and uses CRISPR gene editing to change genes such as SMARCB1. They measure how chromatin structure, protein binding, and acetylation shift when SWI/SNF (BAF) complex function is lost. The goal is to identify specific weak points that new drugs could target.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers known to have SWI/SNF (BAF) mutations — for example malignant rhabdoid tumor — or patients willing to provide tumor samples for research would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not involve SWI/SNF/BAF mutations or those seeking an immediate treatment will likely see no direct clinical benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could identify new molecular targets and strategies that lead to therapies for cancers driven by SWI/SNF (BAF) mutations, including malignant rhabdoid tumor.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown that SWI/SNF (BAF) mutations drive cancer and have revealed potential vulnerabilities, but clinical therapies based on these findings remain limited so far.
Where this research is happening
MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES
- ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL — MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ROBERTS, CHARLES — ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: ROBERTS, CHARLES
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.