How the mTORC1 cell-growth switch is controlled in cancer
Molecular and structural mechanisms of mTORC1 regulation in cancer
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY · NIH-11257253
Researchers are mapping how the mTORC1 cell-growth switch is turned on and off in cancers so future treatments can target the harmful parts while avoiding side effects.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BERKELEY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11257253 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you have cancer, this project looks at the molecular machines that control mTORC1, a central regulator of cell growth that is often abnormal in tumors. Scientists will use high-resolution structural methods and biochemical tests to see how proteins like the Rag GTPases, Ragulator, GATOR1, and FLCN-FNIP control mTORC1 activity. The goal is to find substrate-specific control points so drugs can be designed to block cancer-promoting signals without shutting down helpful functions like autophagy. This is lab-based, basic research that aims to create ideas for safer, more precise therapies in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers linked to mTORC1 dysregulation—such as some renal cell carcinomas or tumors with mutations in Rag, Ragulator, GATOR1, or FLCN pathway genes—are the long-term intended beneficiaries of this work.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers driven by unrelated pathways or those needing immediate clinical treatment may not see direct benefits from this basic laboratory research in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to more precise cancer therapies that block tumor-driving mTORC1 signals while reducing the adverse effects seen with current mTOR inhibitors.
How similar studies have performed: Existing mTOR inhibitors can help certain cancers (for example, renal cell carcinoma), but approaches that target specific mTORC1 interactions are relatively new and largely unproven clinically.
Where this research is happening
BERKELEY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY — BERKELEY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HURLEY, JAMES H — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY
- Study coordinator: HURLEY, JAMES H
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.