MYCN's role in neuroblastoma treatment through SUMOylation inhibition
Official title: MYCN drives a druggable SUMOylation program in neuroblastoma
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11004253 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene linked to high-risk neuroblastoma affects cancer growth and how well a new drug works to treat it, with the hope of finding better treatment options for children battling this tough cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $429,802 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA285692-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004253 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, particularly those with MYCN amplification.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neuroblastoma who do not have MYCN amplification or those over the age of 11 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how MYCN, a gene often amplified in high-risk neuroblastoma, influences cancer progression and treatment response. The study aims to explore the effectiveness of a new drug that inhibits SUMOylation, a process that may help in targeting the cancer's core regulatory mechanisms. By using patient-derived models, the research will assess the safety and efficacy of this treatment both alone and in combination with existing therapies. The goal is to identify a promising therapeutic strategy for children suffering from this aggressive form of cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for high-risk neuroblastoma, potentially improving survival rates for affected children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in neuroblastoma, indicating that this approach may be viable.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Faber, Anthony Charles — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Faber, Anthony Charles
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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.