Investigating how certain proteins affect gene regulation in childhood brain tumors
Official title: Understanding the regulation of PRC2 activity by EZHIP and the K27M oncohistone in pediatric gliomas
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10999386 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins, EZHIP and K27M, mess with a group of proteins that help control gene activity in brain tumors in kids, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | January 12, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $337,425 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA266861-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999386 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with gliomas that exhibit the K27M mutation or express EZHIP.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with gliomas that do not have the K27M mutation or do not express EZHIP may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific proteins, known as EZHIP and K27M, disrupt the normal function of a protein complex called PRC2, which is crucial for regulating gene expression in pediatric gliomas. By examining the biochemical and genetic interactions of these proteins, the researchers aim to uncover how they contribute to tumor growth and development. The study employs a combination of laboratory techniques to analyze the effects of these proteins on gene silencing and cellular behavior in brain tumors. This could lead to new insights into the mechanisms driving these cancers and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for pediatric gliomas by targeting the underlying mechanisms of tumor growth.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting chromatin regulation in cancer, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lewis, Peter W — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Lewis, Peter W
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.