Investigating how NKX3.1 affects prostate cancer as men age
Official title: Nuclear and non-nuclear functions of NKX3.1 in suppression of prostate cancer
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11106221 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gene called NKX3.1 affects the growth of prostate cancer in older men, especially by exploring its new roles outside the cell's nucleus, and it hopes to find ways to improve treatment options for patients as they age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $546,133 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA300337-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11106221 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older men who are at risk for or currently have prostate cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with prostate cancer who are not aging or those with early-stage disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the NKX3.1 gene influences the progression of prostate cancer, particularly in older men. It examines both the traditional nuclear functions of NKX3.1 and its newly discovered roles outside the nucleus, especially under stress conditions. By studying mouse models, the research aims to uncover how the loss of NKX3.1 and associated mitochondrial mutations contribute to faster cancer progression. Patients may benefit from insights into how aging impacts prostate cancer and potential new therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or treating prostate cancer in aging men.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of genetic factors in cancer progression, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abate-Shen, Cory — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Abate-Shen, Cory
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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.