Investigating the role of a key enzyme in cancer development

MTAP, 5'-deoxy-5'-methylthioadenosine, and the dysregulation of symmetric dimethylarginine in cancer

NIH-funded research Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr · NIH-10840890

This study is looking at how a missing enzyme called MTAP affects cancer growth and whether cancer cells without it might respond better to certain treatments, with the goal of finding new ways to help treat cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10840890 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the enzyme methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP) influences cancer progression. It examines the effects of MTAP loss, which is common in various cancers, and how this loss leads to the accumulation of a compound called 5'-deoxy-5'-methylthioadenosine (MTA). The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which MTA affects tumor growth and the potential sensitivity of MTAP-deleted cancer cells to specific treatments. By exploring these pathways, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that exhibit MTAP deletion, including both solid tumors and hematologic malignancies.

Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not involve MTAP deletion or those with non-malignant conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for cancers associated with MTAP loss.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of MTAP in cancer, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
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.