New treatment approach for liver cancer using enhanced cellular stress mechanisms

Novel Approach to Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treatment through Enhanced ER Stress

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11070574

This study is testing a new treatment for liver cancer that uses a special molecule to help make cancer cells die while keeping healthy cells safe, and it's designed for people with hepatocellular carcinoma.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Antonio, United States)
Project IDNIH-11070574 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a severe form of liver cancer. The approach targets the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response in cancer cells, which is often elevated in HCC. By using a small molecule called ERX-315, the study aims to further activate this stress response, leading to cancer cell death while sparing normal cells. The research employs advanced techniques like CRISPR to identify key proteins involved in this process, specifically targeting lysosomal acid lipase A (LIPA).

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma who have limited treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage liver cancer or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients with advanced liver cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting cellular stress responses in cancer treatment, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

San Antonio, 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 Cancer Biology
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.