Investigating how WNT4 affects gynecologic cancer disparities
Official title: Elucidating a novel WNT4 regulatory axis as a driver of gynecologic cancer health disparities
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10932972 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gene called WNT4 might affect ovarian cancer in women, especially how it could influence cancer growth and treatment responses, with the hope of finding better ways to help patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $566,139 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA285446-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932972 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include women diagnosed with ovarian cancer, especially those with known genetic variations in the WNT4 gene.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-gynecologic cancers or those without any genetic predisposition related to WNT4 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the WNT4 gene in gynecologic cancers, particularly ovarian cancer, which is known for its high mortality rates among women. The study examines how specific genetic variations in WNT4 may contribute to cancer growth, therapy resistance, and disparities in health outcomes. By utilizing advanced techniques like CRISPR, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which WNT4 influences cancer cell behavior and patient responses to treatment. This could lead to better-targeted therapies and improved patient care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for ovarian cancer, particularly for those patients who are currently resistant to standard therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results linking WNT4 genetic variations to cancer risk, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sikora, Matthew J — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Sikora, Matthew J
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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.