Improving cancer prevention for people with Li-Fraumeni syndrome
Official title: Refolding Mutant p53: A Strategy for Cancer Prevention in Li-Fraumeni Syndrome
Funded at Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr · NIH-10909964 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to create new medications that can help people with Li-Fraumeni syndrome by fixing a faulty protein linked to cancer, with the goal of preventing tumors from developing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $391,886 |
| NIH project number | 5U54CA272686-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909964 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Li-Fraumeni syndrome who carry mutations in the TP53 gene.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Li-Fraumeni syndrome or those with different genetic mutations unrelated to TP53 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on individuals with Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a genetic condition that increases the risk of early-onset cancers due to mutations in the TP53 gene. The project aims to develop 'refolder drugs' that stabilize the mutant p53 protein, restoring its ability to function properly and preventing cancer development. By targeting the specific mutations that disrupt p53's DNA binding capabilities, the researchers hope to intervene before tumors form. Patients may benefit from these drugs, which are designed to work regardless of the specific mutation present.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of cancer in individuals with Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting p53 mutations, suggesting that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements in cancer prevention.
Where this research is happening
-
Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karanicolas, John — Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Karanicolas, John
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Refolding Mutant p53: A Strategy to Help People with Li-Fraumeni Syndrome
Aims to develop drugs that stabilize mutant p53 in people with Li-Fraumeni syndrome to prevent cancers before they develop.
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Cancer screening with cell-free DNA in Li-Fraumeni Syndrome
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This project tests drugs that help mutated p53 protein fold properly to lower cancer risk for people with Li‑Fraumeni syndrome.
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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.