Investigating the role of MLK2 in cancer blood vessel formation
Official title: Mixed Lineage Kinase 2 (MLK2) in tumor angiogenesis
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11026703 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called MLK2 helps tumors grow by affecting blood vessel formation, especially when there isn't enough oxygen, and it could lead to new ways to treat cancer by cutting off the blood supply to tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $83,180 |
| NIH project number | 1R03CA295675-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11026703 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with solid tumors that may benefit from therapies targeting angiogenesis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-solid tumors or those not experiencing issues related to tumor angiogenesis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how Mixed Lineage Kinase 2 (MLK2) influences the formation of blood vessels in tumors, a critical process for cancer growth. The study explores how low oxygen levels in tumors activate MLK2, which is important for the growth and movement of blood vessel cells. By examining the effects of MLK2 on specific molecules that regulate blood vessel formation, the research aims to uncover new insights into how tumors develop and grow. If successful, this could lead to new strategies for cancer treatment by targeting the blood supply to tumors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that inhibit tumor growth by blocking blood vessel formation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting angiogenesis for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kant, Shashi — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kant, Shashi
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.