Investigating the role of a specific protein in liver cancer development
Official title: Define the oncogenic role of Plk1 during hepatocellular carcinoma development using a genetically modified mouse model
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10729603 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Plk1 affects the growth of liver cancer, hoping to find new ways to treat it, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding more about this serious condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $155,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R03CA283221-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10729603 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for hepatocellular carcinoma, particularly those with liver disease or a family history of liver cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancer or those without liver disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the protein Plk1 contributes to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a common and deadly form of liver cancer. Using genetically modified mice that express higher levels of Plk1, researchers will observe the effects on tumor formation and progression. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind HCC and identify potential new targets for treatment. By analyzing clinical data, the research will also correlate Plk1 levels with patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating liver cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting proteins like Plk1 can be effective in cancer treatment, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fu, Zheng — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Fu, Zheng
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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.