Investigating how a specific enzyme affects liver cancer differently in men and women
Sphingosine kinase 2 in sexual dimorphism of hepatocellular carcinoma
['FUNDING_R01'] · VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY · NIH-10904697
This study is looking at why men are more likely to get liver cancer than women by using special mice to see how a certain enzyme affects cancer development, which could help create better treatments for both men and women.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (RICHMOND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10904697 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding why men are more likely to develop hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) than women. It uses a new animal model that mimics the progression of liver disease to cancer, allowing researchers to study the role of an enzyme called sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2) in this process. By examining how SphK2 influences cancer development in male and female mice, the research aims to uncover the underlying biological mechanisms that contribute to the differences in cancer risk between sexes. The findings could lead to more effective treatments tailored to each gender's specific needs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for hepatocellular carcinoma, particularly those with conditions like obesity or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
Not a fit: Patients who do not have liver disease or are not at risk for hepatocellular carcinoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for liver cancer that take into account the differences between men and women.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining SphK2's role in sexual dimorphism of HCC is novel, similar studies have successfully identified gender differences in cancer risk and mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
RICHMOND, UNITED STATES
- VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY — RICHMOND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GREEN, CHRISTOPHER D — VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: GREEN, CHRISTOPHER D
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 below.
Conditions: Cancer Cause, Cancer Causing Agents, Cancer Etiology