Investigating how Wnt signaling affects aggressive thyroid cancer
The role of Wnt signaling in aggressive thyroid carcinoma
This study is looking at how certain signals in the body affect aggressive thyroid cancers that come back after treatment, and it aims to find new ways to help patients by testing how these cancers respond to specific drugs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914063 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of Wnt signaling in aggressive forms of thyroid cancer, particularly those that are recurrent and treatment-resistant. It aims to explore how these cancers, which often develop from well-differentiated thyroid cancers into highly lethal anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, respond to BRAF inhibitors and the potential role of Wnt signaling in this process. The study utilizes a unique organoid system derived from patient tumors to analyze the genetic alterations and signaling pathways involved. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic targets for improving treatment outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with aggressive or recurrent thyroid cancer, particularly those with anaplastic thyroid carcinoma.
Not a fit: Patients with well-differentiated thyroid cancer that has not recurred or progressed may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for patients with aggressive thyroid cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated that targeting Wnt signaling may be effective in treating various cancers, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weiss, Vivian Lee — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Weiss, Vivian Lee
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.