Investigating how a specific RNA modification affects a type of cancer caused by arsenic exposure
Official title: Evaluating METTL1-mediated m7G tRNA methylation as a novel dependency in alveolar rhadomyosarcoma
Funded at Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-11232020 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific change in RNA might affect the growth of a type of cancer called alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, which is linked to arsenic exposure, and it aims to find new ways to treat this cancer that could help patients in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $99,576 |
| NIH project number | 4K00CA284279-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11232020 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma or those with a history of arsenic exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers unrelated to arsenic exposure or those not diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific RNA modification, known as m6A methylation, in the development of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a type of cancer linked to arsenic exposure. The study aims to explore how the enzyme ALKBH1 influences this modification and its impact on gene expression related to tumor growth. By examining the mechanisms behind arsenic-induced skin cancer, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic targets that could lead to more effective cancer treatments. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to targeted therapies based on these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies for patients suffering from arsenic-induced cancers.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on ALKBH1 and m6A methylation in this context is novel, previous research has shown promise in targeting RNA modifications for cancer therapy.
Where this research is happening
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Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilkinson, Emma Anne — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Wilkinson, Emma Anne
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.