Investigating how a specific protein variant promotes kidney cancer growth

Pro-tumorigenic roles of a VHL isoform in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma

NIH-funded research University of Notre Dame · NIH-10813138

This study is looking at a specific gene change in kidney cancer that might actually help tumors grow, and it aims to understand how this change affects cancer cells so that new treatment options can be developed for people with this type of cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Notre Dame NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Notre Dame, United States)
Project IDNIH-10813138 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), a common type of kidney cancer that often lacks effective treatment options due to its unique genetic characteristics. The study aims to explore the role of a specific variant of the VHL gene, known as pVHL172, which has been found to promote tumor growth rather than suppress it. Researchers will investigate how this variant influences cancer cell behavior through signaling mechanisms, particularly by studying the role of extracellular vesicles released by tumor cells. By understanding these processes, the research hopes to identify new therapeutic targets for ccRCC.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with clear cell renal cell carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of kidney cancer or those without renal cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting specific molecular pathways in kidney cancer, suggesting that this approach could also yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Notre Dame, 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 Cancersneoplasm/cancerRenal Cell Cancer
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.