How the TEAD‑VGLL cell switch affects cancer growth and drug resistance
Novel regulation and functions of TEAD-VGLL complex
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11301030
Researchers are exploring how a protein complex called TEAD‑VGLL changes cancer cells and whether new drugs can block it to help people whose tumors resist treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11301030 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project studies a protein complex called TEAD‑VGLL3 that helps control gene activity in cells. Scientists will map the complex’s structure and test how it changes cancer cell behavior in lab-grown cells and animal models. They will develop and test new drugs designed to block TEAD‑VGLL3 and check whether those drugs can stop tumors that resist existing TEAD inhibitors. If lab results are promising, the work could move toward early human testing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with tumors driven by the Hippo/TEAD pathway or whose cancers have become resistant to TEAD‑targeting approaches would be the most likely candidates for future trials informed by this work.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers unrelated to TEAD/Hippo signaling or people without cancer are unlikely to benefit directly from this research in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new drugs that prevent or overcome resistance in cancers driven by the TEAD/Hippo pathway, improving treatment options for those patients.
How similar studies have performed: Early lab studies targeting TEAD/YAP signaling have shown promise but face resistance challenges, and specifically targeting TEAD‑VGLL3 is a newer, largely untested approach in patients.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WU, XU — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: WU, XU
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.