Investigating GPR56 as a target for treating colorectal cancer
Official title: The Role and Therapeutic Targeting of GPR56 in Colorectal Cancer
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11130866 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called GPR56 that is found in high amounts in colorectal cancer, and it aims to understand how this protein helps cancer cells resist treatment, so researchers can create better therapies for patients battling this disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $406,611 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA281962-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11130866 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with advanced colorectal cancer who have not responded well to existing treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage colorectal cancer or those whose cancer is not driven by GPR56 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of GPR56, a protein that is highly expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) and linked to poor patient outcomes. The study aims to explore how GPR56 contributes to the resistance of cancer stem-like cells to current therapies and their role in cancer progression. By using patient-derived organoids, researchers will investigate the signaling mechanisms of GPR56 and develop targeted therapies, including antibody-drug conjugates, to improve treatment effectiveness for CRC patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for colorectal cancer, potentially improving survival rates and reducing side effects for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar proteins in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carmon, Kendra S. — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Carmon, Kendra S.
Related research
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Comparative modeling to guide colorectal cancer screening and care
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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.