Investigating how a specific enzyme affects kidney cancer growth

The role of the RNA demethylase FTO in metabolic reprogramming of renal cell carcinoma

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11015035

This study is looking at how a specific protein called FTO affects the growth of a type of kidney cancer called clear cell renal cell carcinoma, especially when a key gene is missing, with the goal of finding new ways to help patients with advanced kidney cancer feel better and live longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015035 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), a common and aggressive type of kidney cancer. It aims to understand the role of the RNA demethylase FTO in the growth and survival of ccRCC cells, particularly in cases where the VHL tumor suppressor gene is lost. By exploring the mechanisms by which FTO contributes to cancer progression, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes for patients with advanced kidney cancer. The approach includes studying the interactions between FTO and cancer cell metabolism, which may lead to innovative treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma who may benefit from novel therapeutic strategies.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage kidney cancer or those whose cancer is not clear cell renal cell carcinoma may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve survival rates for patients with advanced kidney cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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 advanced disease
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.