Stopping the processes that let cancer cells divide
Determining and targeting mechanisms controlling cancer cell division
This project develops ways to block proteins that let breast and other cancers keep dividing so treatments can better slow or stop tumor growth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11457250 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would hear that scientists are focusing on the Cyclin D–Cdk4/6–Rb–E2F pathway, a key molecular switch that tells cells to copy their DNA and divide. In the lab they use tools like CRISPR gene editing, cell and animal models, and drug testing to find weak points in that pathway. The team is testing new targets and ways to improve or extend drugs called CDK4/6 inhibitors that already work for some breast cancers. The goal is to find therapies that stop cancer cells from proliferating or overcome resistance to current treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with breast cancer or other tumors that show changes in the Cyclin D–Cdk4/6–Rb–E2F pathway (for example cyclin amplification or RB pathway alterations) would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers are driven by unrelated mechanisms and lack alterations in this pathway are less likely to benefit directly from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new or improved drugs that slow tumor growth, help patients respond better to therapy, and extend survival for some cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Drugs that block CDK4/6 are already approved for certain breast cancers, so this project builds on a successful approach while seeking new targets and ways to overcome resistance.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Skotheim, Jan M — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Skotheim, Jan M
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.