Investigating Twist1 for preventing and treating skin cancer

Twist1 as a Target for Prevention and Treatment of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

NIH-funded research University of Texas at Austin · NIH-10876471

This study is looking at a protein called Twist1 to see how it influences skin cancer, specifically cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, and aims to find new ways to target it to help prevent and treat this type of skin cancer, especially in relation to how skin cells react to UV light.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas at Austin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Austin, United States)
Project IDNIH-10876471 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how Twist1, a protein involved in cancer progression, affects cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). The team aims to develop new methods to target Twist1, which could help prevent and treat this type of skin cancer. They will explore the role of Twist1 in the early stages of skin cancer development and its impact on skin cells' behavior, particularly in response to UV exposure. By studying the effects of Twist1 on skin cell differentiation and stem cell behavior, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of skin cancer or those at high risk for developing cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of skin cancer or those who do not have risk factors for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments and preventive strategies for patients at risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Austin, 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 Cancers
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.