Investigating how receptor interactions affect colorectal cancer treatment

Role of Receptor Tyrosine Kinase cross-talk in colorectal cancer

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11075224

This study is looking at how certain proteins in colorectal cancer might make it harder for some patients to respond to the drug cetuximab, with the goal of finding ways to help more people benefit from this treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11075224 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) in colorectal cancer, particularly how they contribute to resistance against the drug cetuximab. The team will explore the mechanisms behind RTK cooperation during cancer progression and treatment resistance using advanced cell models and patient-derived samples. By identifying which patients are most likely to benefit from cetuximab and developing strategies to overcome resistance, the research aims to improve treatment outcomes for colorectal cancer patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are colorectal cancer patients, especially those with wild-type KRAS who have not responded to cetuximab or are at risk of developing resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with colorectal cancer who have mutations in KRAS or other genetic profiles that do not involve EGFR may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment strategies for colorectal cancer patients, particularly those who currently do not respond to existing therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting RTK interactions to overcome drug resistance in various cancers, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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.
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.