How RAMS11 affects colorectal cancer growth and treatment resistance
The role of RAMS11 in colorectal cancer progression and treatment resistance
Researchers want to learn whether a molecule called RAMS11 helps explain cancer spread and chemotherapy resistance in people with colorectal cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136421 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on a long noncoding RNA called RAMS11 that is more common in tumors that have spread. Investigators compared normal, primary, and metastatic tumor samples from patients to find RNAs linked to metastasis and poor outcomes. They use lab-grown cancer cells, mouse models, and CRISPR methods to turn RAMS11 on or off and study effects on tumor growth and response to drugs such as 5-FU. The team aims to connect RAMS11 levels to patient outcomes and to inform treatment decisions in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with colorectal cancer—including those with early-stage tumors considering adjuvant therapy and those with metastatic disease—would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Individuals without colorectal cancer or whose tumors do not express RAMS11 are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help identify patients at higher risk of recurrence and suggest ways to overcome chemotherapy resistance.
How similar studies have performed: Other research shows some long noncoding RNAs can affect cancer behavior, but RAMS11 is newly identified and its targeting has not yet been proven in patients.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maher, Christopher a — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Maher, Christopher a
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.