Investigating how to target RET in neuroendocrine prostate cancer
RET Regulation and Targeting in Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancer
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA · NIH-11074596
This study is looking into how a specific type of prostate cancer, called neuroendocrine prostate cancer, works and how certain proteins might help us find better treatments for it, so we can improve care for patients facing this tough condition.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11074596 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), a lethal variant of prostate cancer that does not respond to standard hormone therapies. The team aims to explore how certain proteins, particularly RET, are regulated and activated in NEPC, which could lead to new treatment options. By studying the role of ASCL1, a key regulator of gene expression, the researchers hope to identify effective ways to target RET and improve outcomes for patients with this aggressive cancer type.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with neuroendocrine prostate cancer or those who have developed castration-resistant prostate cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage prostate cancer or those who do not have neuroendocrine features in their tumors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies for patients with neuroendocrine prostate cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research on targeting RET in neuroendocrine prostate cancer, similar approaches targeting kinase pathways in other cancer types have shown promise.
Where this research is happening
MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA — MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DRAKE, JUSTIN MICHAEL — UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
- Study coordinator: DRAKE, JUSTIN MICHAEL
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 below.