Natural compounds to block Skp2, a protein that helps prostate cancer grow
Nautral products for targeting Skp2 in cancer interception
This work will try natural compounds that could keep early prostate cancer from getting worse in men on active surveillance or after treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11309645 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will search for natural products that inhibit Skp2, a protein linked to early prostate cancer progression. Promising compounds will be tested in lab-grown prostate cancer cells and in animal models, and the team will use genetic tools to confirm that effects come from targeting Skp2. The aim is to identify low-toxicity agents that could be given to men under active surveillance or after prostate surgery or radiation to reduce the chance of progression. If human samples or early human studies are needed, those would be coordinated through the University of California–Irvine.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Men with early-stage prostate cancer who are on active surveillance or men after prostatectomy or radiation who are at risk of progression would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People with advanced metastatic prostate cancer or cancers not driven by Skp2 activity are unlikely to benefit from these specific interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could provide low-toxicity, natural treatment options to slow or prevent prostate cancer progression and reduce unnecessary aggressive treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Prior preclinical studies show that blocking Skp2 can limit tumor growth in experimental models, but using natural compounds against Skp2 is largely at the preclinical, unproven stage for patients.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zi, Xiaolin — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Zi, Xiaolin
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.