How the SMARCB1 gene helps prevent aggressive childhood tumors
THE FUNCTION OF SNF5 (SMARCB1), AN EPIGENETIC TUMOR SUPPRESSOR
This work focuses on how loss of the SMARCB1 gene leads to aggressive pediatric rhabdoid tumors so researchers can find weak points new treatments might target.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11297772 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on SMARCB1 (also called SNF5/INI1/BAF47), a gene that is lost in almost all malignant rhabdoid tumors that affect children. Scientists analyze tumor samples, run genetic and epigenetic tests, and use laboratory models to see how loss of SMARCB1 alters chromatin remodeling and enhancer control. The team is studying related proteins such as BRD9 and a specialized SWI/SNF complex (ncBAF/GBAF) that SMARCB1-deficient tumors may rely on, looking for vulnerabilities drug treatments could exploit. Work is led at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and aims to turn lab findings into targets for future early-phase clinical approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Children diagnosed with malignant rhabdoid tumors or other cancers shown to lack SMARCB1 (INI1/BAF47) would be the most relevant candidates for related clinical efforts.
Not a fit: Patients whose tumors retain normal SMARCB1 function or who have unrelated cancer types are unlikely to benefit directly from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new drug targets or biomarkers and lead to novel treatments for children with SMARCB1-deficient rhabdoid tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies have shown vulnerabilities such as BRD9 dependence in SMARCB1-deficient tumors, but clinical benefit in patients has not yet been established.
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.