MYCN's role in making neuroblastoma cells vulnerable to a specific type of cell death.
MYCN drives a ferroptotic vulnerability in neuroblastoma
['FUNDING_R01'] · VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY · NIH-10916529
This study is looking at how a gene called MYCN influences neuroblastoma, a serious cancer in kids, by changing how cancer cells manage iron and antioxidants, with the hope of finding new ways to make current treatments work better.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (RICHMOND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10916529 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the MYCN gene affects neuroblastoma, a severe pediatric cancer, by altering the way cancer cells handle iron and antioxidants. The study focuses on a newly discovered form of cell death called ferroptosis, which may be triggered in MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma cells. By understanding the mechanisms behind this vulnerability, researchers aim to identify new treatment strategies that could enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies. The approach involves both genetic and pharmaceutical methods to target specific pathways that lead to cancer cell death.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old diagnosed with MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma.
Not a fit: Patients with neuroblastoma that does not have MYCN amplification or those over the age of 11 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for children with neuroblastoma, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of ferroptosis is relatively new, preliminary studies have shown promise in targeting this pathway in other cancers, suggesting potential for success in neuroblastoma as well.
Where this research is happening
RICHMOND, UNITED STATES
- VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY — RICHMOND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FABER, ANTHONY CHARLES — VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: FABER, ANTHONY CHARLES
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 below.