Investigating how tumor metabolism affects resistance to radiation therapy in cancer treatment
Exploring O-glycoproteomics to prevent metabolic radioresistance in the tumor microenvironment
This study is looking at how cancer cells change their energy use when they are treated with radiation, which is often the only option for patients with tumors that can’t be removed, to help find better ways to overcome their resistance to treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10948989 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how cancer cells adapt their metabolism in response to radiation therapy, which is often the only curative option for patients with inoperable tumors. The study specifically examines a metabolic pathway known as the Hexosamine Biosynthesis Pathway (HBP) and its role in modifying proteins through a process called O-glycosylation. By analyzing the interactions between cancer cells and surrounding stromal cells, the research aims to uncover how these changes contribute to radioresistance, which is a major challenge in effective cancer treatment. Patients may benefit from insights gained in this research that could lead to improved therapeutic strategies against resistant tumors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with inoperable tumors who are undergoing radiation therapy.
Not a fit: Patients with operable tumors or those not receiving radiation therapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy for cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining O-glycoproteomics in this context is novel, related research has shown that understanding metabolic pathways can significantly impact cancer treatment outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bouchard, Gina — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Bouchard, Gina
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.