Investigating how specific peptides can influence cancer cell signaling.
Official title: Fine-tuning CXCL12-mediated activities using Beta1-strand binding peptides
Funded at University of North Carolina Charlotte · NIH-10796003 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain peptides can block signals that help cancer cells grow and spread, with the hope of finding new ways to treat cancer by changing how cells communicate with each other.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Carolina Charlotte NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlotte, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | September 14, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $461,992 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM152924-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10796003 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cancers that are influenced by CXCL12 signaling.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancers are not driven by CXCL12 signaling may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the interactions between specific peptides and the CXCL12 signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in cancer and immune cell functions. By examining how CXCL12 ß1-strand binding peptides can inhibit signaling through CXCR4 and CXCR7, the study aims to uncover new therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. The researchers will analyze the binding characteristics of these peptides and their effects on cell behavior in laboratory settings, particularly in macrophages and epithelial cells. This work could lead to innovative strategies for managing cancer by modulating cell communication.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively inhibit cancer cell growth and improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using CXCL12 ß1-strand binding peptides is novel, similar studies have shown promise in targeting chemokine signaling pathways for cancer treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Carolina Charlotte
Charlotte, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dreau, Didier — University of North Carolina Charlotte
- Study coordinator: Dreau, Didier
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.