Investigating how reactivating a tumor suppressor gene can affect cancer cells

Project 2: To determine the consequences of activating Rb function in cancer cells

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11046672

This study is looking at how turning back on a gene called Rb can help slow down cancer growth, and it's for people with cancer who want to know more about how new treatments might work better for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046672 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of the Rb tumor suppressor gene in cancer cells, particularly how reactivating this gene can suppress cancer progression. The study employs a combination of genetic, cell biological, biochemical, and structural methods, including the use of a novel mouse model that allows researchers to turn Rb function on and off. By examining the effects of Rb re-activation in cancer cells that have lost its function, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that enable these cells to respond to existing cancer therapies, specifically Cdk4/6 inhibitors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers where the Rb gene is inactive but can potentially be reactivated through treatment.

Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not involve the Rb gene or those who have already exhausted all treatment options may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer treatments by enhancing the effectiveness of existing therapies that target the Rb pathway.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with Cdk4/6 inhibitors in cancer treatment, indicating that exploring Rb re-activation could be a valuable and novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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 therapy
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.