Improving lung cancer treatment by targeting cell recycling processes

Targeting autophagy to increase the sensitivity of LKB1-deficient lung tumors to angiogenesis inhibitor

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10669269

This study is looking at ways to make current treatments work better for people with non-small cell lung cancer who have certain genetic changes, by blocking a process that helps cancer cells survive, which could lead to improved results for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10669269 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance the effectiveness of angiogenesis inhibitors in treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with specific genetic mutations (KRAS and LKB1). The approach focuses on targeting autophagy, a cellular process that allows cancer cells to survive by recycling nutrients. By blocking this process, the research aims to make tumors more sensitive to existing treatments, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. The study will involve laboratory experiments and may include patient-derived samples to assess the effectiveness of this combined treatment strategy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer who have mutations in both KRAS and LKB1.

Not a fit: Patients without these specific genetic mutations or those with other types of lung cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with aggressive lung cancer, potentially increasing survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting autophagy to enhance cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in therapy.

Where this research is happening

Newark, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.