Investigating how a specific protein regulates intestinal signaling related to cancer.
Official title: Study of PTPRF-Mediated Regulation of Wnt Signaling
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11044136 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called PTPRF helps keep our intestinal cells healthy, and by using special mice without this protein, researchers hope to learn more about how it affects the growth of cells in the gut, which could help us understand colorectal cancer better and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $347,125 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM150200-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044136 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for colorectal cancer or those with conditions related to Wnt signaling dysregulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers unrelated to Wnt signaling or those not at risk for colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called PTPRF in regulating Wnt signaling, which is crucial for maintaining healthy intestinal cells. By studying genetically modified mice that lack this protein, researchers aim to uncover how changes in PTPRF affect the growth and differentiation of intestinal stem cells. The findings could provide insights into the mechanisms that lead to colorectal cancer when Wnt signaling is disrupted. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how to target these pathways for therapeutic interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating colorectal cancer by targeting the Wnt signaling pathway.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting Wnt signaling pathways for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gao, Tianyan — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Gao, Tianyan
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.