Investigating how propionate metabolism affects non-small cell lung cancer

The Role of Propionate Metabolism in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11113801

This study is looking at how a substance called methylmalonic acid affects the growth and treatment resistance of non-small cell lung cancer, and it invites patients to help by providing blood samples to better understand this connection and find new treatment options.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11113801 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of propionate metabolism in the progression and treatment resistance of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It aims to identify non-genetic mechanisms that contribute to cancer metastasis and resistance to therapies, focusing on a metabolic byproduct called methylmalonic acid (MMA). The study will analyze how MMA influences cancer cell behavior and its potential as a target for new treatments. Patients may be involved in providing serum samples to help understand the relationship between propionate metabolism and lung cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, particularly those experiencing treatment resistance or metastatic disease.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of lung cancer or those who are not diagnosed with cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve treatment outcomes for patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on propionate metabolism in lung cancer is novel, previous research has shown success in targeting metabolic pathways to improve cancer treatment outcomes.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 anti-cancer research
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 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.