Investigating drug resistance in specific lung cancer mutations and developing targeted treatments

Molecular features impacting drug resistance in atypical EGFR exon 18 and exon 20 mutant non-small cell lung cancers and the development of novel mutant-selective inhibitors

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10818397

This study is looking at how certain unusual changes in the EGFR gene make it harder for non-small cell lung cancer patients to respond to current treatments, and it's testing a new drug called poziotinib that might work better for those with these specific changes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10818397 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the molecular features that contribute to drug resistance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with atypical EGFR mutations, specifically those in exon 18 and exon 20. The study aims to develop novel inhibitors that selectively target these mutations, which are resistant to existing treatments. By analyzing the structural and functional characteristics of these mutations, researchers are working to identify effective therapies that can improve patient outcomes. The research includes clinical trials testing a promising drug, poziotinib, which has shown potential in treating these specific mutations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer who have atypical EGFR mutations in exon 18 or exon 20.

Not a fit: Patients with classical EGFR mutations or those without EGFR mutations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with atypical EGFR mutations in lung cancer, improving their survival and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar targeted therapies in other cancer types, indicating potential for this approach in treating atypical EGFR mutations.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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/cancerNSCLC - Non-Small Cell Lung CancerNon-Small Cell Lung 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.