New treatments for prostate cancer using small molecule inhibitors
Official title: Small Molecule ERG Inhibitors for Prostate Cancer
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10999567 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new treatments for prostate cancer by targeting a specific protein called ERG, which can make the cancer harder to treat, especially when it becomes resistant to standard therapies; if you're a patient, you might have the chance to try out these new treatments in a trial to see how well they work and if they're safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $653,897 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA282472-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999567 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with prostate cancer, especially those with castration-resistant prostate cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage prostate cancer who have not yet undergone treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing small molecule inhibitors that target the ERG transcription factor, which is involved in the progression of prostate cancer. The study aims to address the challenge of treatment resistance in prostate cancer, particularly in cases that have progressed to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). By exploring the role of ERG and its interactions with the androgen receptor, the research seeks to create more effective therapies that can improve patient outcomes. Patients may be involved in trials that test these new inhibitors to assess their effectiveness and safety.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for prostate cancer, particularly for patients who have developed resistance to current therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting transcription factors for cancer treatment, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bushweller, John Hackett — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Bushweller, John Hackett
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AR and RNA-binding in prostate cancer resistance
A cancer research grant exploring how the androgen receptor’s interaction with RNA may drive treatment resistance in prostate cancer, with potential to guide new therapies.
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.