Improving cancer treatment by targeting specific proteins in tumors without PTEN.
Maximizing the Effectiveness of PI3K Inhibitors in the Treatment of Pten null Cancers
This study is looking at how some tumors that don't have a key protein called PTEN depend on another protein, p110β, to grow, and it's working on new treatments that specifically target p110β to make cancer therapies more effective for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10911190 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain tumors that lack the PTEN tumor suppressor rely on a specific protein, p110β, for their growth. The team has discovered that existing treatments using PI3K inhibitors were ineffective because they did not target p110β. By developing new compounds that specifically inhibit p110β, the researchers aim to enhance treatment effectiveness. Additionally, they are exploring other drug targets that could be used alongside these inhibitors to overcome resistance in these tumors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers characterized by the loss of the PTEN tumor suppressor.
Not a fit: Patients whose tumors do not exhibit PTEN loss or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with PTEN null cancers, improving their chances of recovery.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting specific proteins in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Dana-Farber Cancer Inst — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roberts, Thomas M — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Roberts, Thomas M
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.