How the enzyme heparanase changes cancer tissue using targeted chemical probes
Exploring the precise role of heparanase via small molecule probes
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA · NIH-11320711
This project creates tiny chemical tools to reveal how the enzyme heparanase reshapes the surroundings of cancer cells, with the goal of helping people with cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11320711 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, researchers are building small, well-defined chemical probes that can stick to or label heparanase so they can watch what the enzyme does in real time. They will use these probes in cells and tissue models to map how heparanase cuts heparan sulfate and changes the extracellular matrix that surrounds tumors. The team also develops in situ labeling chemistry to track heparanase activity inside tissue environments. Results aim to clarify the precise molecular steps by which heparanase supports cancer growth, angiogenesis, and inflammation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with cancers—especially solid tumors where heparanase is suspected to play a role—would be the most relevant group if the project invites sample donation or future clinical follow-up.
Not a fit: People without cancer or with tumor types not driven by heparanase are unlikely to get direct benefit from this basic laboratory-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to block heparanase-driven tissue remodeling and slow tumor growth or spread.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has linked heparanase to cancer, but suitable molecular probes were lacking until recently, so this probe-development approach is relatively new and exploratory.
Where this research is happening
GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA — GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CUI, LINA — UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
- Study coordinator: CUI, LINA
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.
Conditions: Cancers