Improving ovarian cancer treatment by targeting a mitochondrial protein
Targeting sideroflexin 4, a mitochondrial inner membrane protein involved iniron sulfur cluster biogenesis, to enhance the efficacy of DNA-damaging drugs inovarian cancer
This study is looking at how lowering a specific protein in ovarian cancer cells might make them more sensitive to certain chemotherapy drugs, helping to improve treatment for patients by making it harder for the cancer to repair itself.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10774242 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how targeting the mitochondrial protein sideroflexin 4 (SFXN4) can enhance the effectiveness of DNA-damaging drugs used in ovarian cancer treatment. The approach focuses on understanding how reducing SFXN4 levels affects iron-sulfur cluster formation in cancer cells, which may lead to increased oxidative stress and DNA damage. By disrupting the cancer cells' ability to repair DNA damage, the research aims to overcome drug resistance and improve treatment outcomes for patients. The study utilizes advanced cellular techniques to explore these mechanisms and their implications for therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with ovarian cancer, especially those who have not responded well to standard platinum-based therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with non-malignant conditions or those whose ovarian cancer is not responsive to DNA-damaging drugs may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for ovarian cancer, particularly for patients who currently have limited options due to drug resistance.
How similar studies have performed: While targeting mitochondrial proteins is a relatively novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in enhancing cancer treatment efficacy through similar mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Farmington, United States
- University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt — Farmington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Torti, Suzy V — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Torti, Suzy V
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.