Investigating how certain cell death mechanisms can kill cancer cells without triggering apoptosis
Lysosomal-mitochondrial signaling in non-apoptotic cancer cell death
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · NIH-10889991
This study is exploring a new way to help people with tough-to-treat cancers by using a special compound to target and kill cancer cells without harming healthy ones, which could lead to better treatment options for patients who have tumors that resist standard therapies.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DAVIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10889991 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how cancer cells can be targeted and killed using mechanisms that do not involve apoptosis, which is often ineffective due to resistance in many tumors. The study specifically examines the role of lysosomal-mitochondrial signaling in inducing a unique form of cell death called lysosomal cell death (LCD). By using a compound known as hexamethylene amiloride (HMA), which has been used for blood pressure management, the researchers aim to selectively kill cancer cells while sparing normal cells. This approach could provide a new therapeutic strategy for patients with resistant cancers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with therapy-resistant cancers, particularly those who have not responded to standard chemotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers that are responsive to conventional treatments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cancer patients whose tumors are resistant to conventional therapies.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting non-apoptotic cell death mechanisms is relatively novel, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar strategies for overcoming treatment resistance in cancer.
Where this research is happening
DAVIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS — DAVIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CARRAWAY, KERMIT L — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS
- Study coordinator: CARRAWAY, KERMIT L
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: Breast Cancer Cell