Investigating a new form of a protein that may cause cancer treatment resistance

Novel Topoisomerase II alpha isoform as a drug resistance determinant

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-10531227

This study is looking at a special protein that helps cancer drugs work better, and it wants to find out how a shorter version of this protein makes leukemia cells resistant to a common chemotherapy drug called etoposide, so that doctors can find new ways to help patients who aren't responding to treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10531227 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on a specific protein called DNA Topoisomerase IIα (TOP2α), which is crucial for the effectiveness of many cancer drugs. The study aims to understand how a novel, shorter version of this protein, known as TOP2α/90, contributes to resistance against the chemotherapy drug etoposide in leukemia cells. By analyzing patient samples and conducting laboratory experiments, the researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms behind this resistance and identify potential ways to overcome it. This could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients who do not respond to current therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with leukemia who have experienced resistance to chemotherapy treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve the TOP2α protein or those who have not undergone chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new approaches for overcoming drug resistance in cancer treatment, potentially improving outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting alternative protein isoforms can be effective in addressing drug resistance, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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 Anti-Cancer AgentsCancer Drug
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.