New therapies targeting cancer signaling pathways in uveal melanoma
Targeting Systems Vulnerabilities in the Gαq/GNAQ Oncogenic Signaling Circuitry: New Precision Therapies for Uveal Melanoma
This study is looking at how certain changes in proteins related to eye cancer, specifically uveal melanoma, can help us find new ways to treat it, especially for patients whose cancer has spread.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11095748 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific mutations in G proteins and GPCRs contribute to uveal melanoma, a type of eye cancer. By investigating the Gαq/GNAQ signaling pathways, the researchers aim to identify vulnerabilities that can be targeted with precision therapies. The study involves analyzing cancer genomes and exploring the role of YAP activation in tumor growth, which could lead to new treatment options for patients with metastatic uveal melanoma. The ultimate goal is to develop effective therapies for a condition that currently has limited treatment options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with uveal melanoma, particularly those with advanced or metastatic disease.
Not a fit: Patients with non-melanoma eye cancers or those without mutations in the Gαq/GNAQ signaling pathways may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for patients suffering from metastatic uveal melanoma.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting GPCRs and G proteins in various cancers, indicating that this approach may be effective for uveal melanoma as well.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gutkind, Jorge Silvio — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Gutkind, Jorge Silvio
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.