How specific lipids affect the behavior of KRAS proteins in cancer.
Official title: Regulation of KRAS plasma membrane targeting by defined glycosphingolipids.
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10894128 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how specific fats in our cells affect a protein called KRAS, which plays a big role in cancer, to help us understand how it works and find new ways to treat cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $396,725 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM151280-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894128 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers associated with KRAS mutations, such as pancreatic, colorectal, or lung cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers not driven by KRAS mutations or those with early-stage cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain glycosphingolipids influence the localization and function of KRAS proteins, which are critical in cancer development. By examining the relationship between these lipids and KRAS, the study aims to understand how KRAS is activated and how it contributes to cancer cell growth. The researchers will use advanced imaging techniques and genetic methods to explore the mechanisms by which these lipids affect KRAS behavior. This could lead to new insights into cancer biology and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for targeting KRAS in cancer treatment, potentially improving outcomes for patients with KRAS-driven tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting lipid interactions can influence cancer pathways, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hancock, John F — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Hancock, John F
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.