Investigating how a gene linked to Parkinson's disease affects a type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
Official title: Role of the Parkinson's susceptibility gene LRRK2 in NFAT-mediated malignant mesothelioma tumorigenesis
Funded at Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr · NIH-10832656 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gene related to Parkinson's disease might affect the growth of malignant mesothelioma, a serious cancer linked to asbestos exposure, to find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $94,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R03CA280410-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10832656 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of malignant mesothelioma or those who have been exposed to asbestos.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with malignant mesothelioma who do not have genetic mutations related to LRRK2 or asbestos exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on malignant mesothelioma (MM), a severe cancer associated with asbestos exposure. It aims to understand the role of the LRRK2 gene, which is linked to Parkinson's disease, in the development and progression of MM. The researchers will explore how the loss of LRRK2 protein affects cellular pathways involved in inflammation and cancer growth. By studying genetic mutations and their impact on cancer cells, the project seeks to identify potential new therapeutic targets for treating this aggressive cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for patients suffering from malignant mesothelioma.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting LRRK2 in malignant mesothelioma is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding the genetic factors contributing to cancer.
Where this research is happening
-
Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Testa, Joseph R. — Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Testa, Joseph R.
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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.