NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating how certain mutations in protein kinase A contribute to rare tumors

Official title: Targeting Oncogenic PKA signaling mechanisms

Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11211314 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain changes in a protein called PKA can cause rare tumors, and it's trying to find new ways to treat these cancers by understanding how these changes affect cell behavior.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project startDecember 15, 2023
Project endNovember 30, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$61,036
NIH project number3R01CA279997-02S1
Project IDNIH-11211314 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with rare endocrine or hepatic tumors associated with oncogenic PKA mutations.

Less likely to help

Patients with common cancers or tumors not related to PKA signaling may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind rare tumors, particularly those driven by mutations in protein kinase A (PKA). By examining how these mutations lead to abnormal cell signaling, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies. The approach involves profiling oncogenic PKA mutants and exploring their effects on protein translation in adrenal and hepatic tumors. This could lead to the development of targeted treatments that specifically address the unique characteristics of these rare cancers.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective therapies for patients with rare tumors that currently lack approved treatments.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting oncogenic mutations in protein kinases, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in treating rare cancers.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California, San Francisco
    San Francisco, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Gordan, John D — University of California, San Francisco
  • Study coordinator: Gordan, John D

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.