Investigating new ways to kill cancer cells without triggering apoptosis

Lysosomal-mitochondrial signaling in non-apoptotic cancer cell death

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-10977352

This study is looking at how a special compound called HMA can help kill cancer cells in a new way, which might be helpful for patients whose tumors don't respond to regular treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10977352 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how certain cellular signals between lysosomes and mitochondria can lead to a specific type of cancer cell death that does not rely on the traditional apoptosis pathway. The study aims to explore the effects of a compound called hexamethylene amiloride (HMA), which has shown promise in selectively killing cancer cells while sparing normal cells. By examining the mechanisms behind this process, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies for patients whose tumors are resistant to standard treatments. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective cancer therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with various types of cancer that have shown resistance to conventional therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancers are responsive to standard treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for patients with therapy-resistant cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated potential success in targeting alternative cell death pathways, suggesting that this approach may hold promise.

Where this research is happening

Davis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Breast Cancer Cell
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.