Investigating how cholesterol production affects metastatic and recurrent endometrial cancer

The role of cholesterol biosynthesis in metastatic and recurrent endometrialcancer

NIH-funded research University of Missouri-Columbia · NIH-11018579

This study is looking at how certain gene changes affect the spread and return of endometrial cancer in women, using special mice to see if blocking cholesterol production can help slow down the cancer's growth and recurrence, with the hope of finding new treatments to improve patient care.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11018579 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind metastatic and recurrent endometrial cancer, which is a significant health concern for women. Using a genetically engineered mouse model, the study examines how mutations in specific genes, particularly PTEN and MIG-6, influence cancer progression and recurrence. The researchers aim to explore the role of cholesterol biosynthesis in this process, hypothesizing that inhibiting cholesterol production may reduce metastasis and recurrence. By analyzing gene expression and tumor behavior in these models, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with metastatic or recurrent endometrial cancer, particularly those with PTEN mutations.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage or low-grade endometrial cancer who are not experiencing metastasis or recurrence may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that prevent the recurrence and spread of endometrial cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting cholesterol biosynthesis in endometrial cancer is novel, similar strategies have shown promise in other cancer types.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, 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 cancer cell
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.