Targeting a key protein interaction to fight cancer

Therapeutic targeting of MYC interactions with an essential cofactor

['FUNDING_R21'] · DARTMOUTH COLLEGE · NIH-10655655

This study is looking for new medicines that can help fight certain cancers, especially triple negative breast cancer, by blocking a protein called MYC that often works too much, and they’re testing these potential treatments in lab models to see how well they can slow down cancer growth.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDARTMOUTH COLLEGE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HANOVER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10655655 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new drugs that inhibit the function of the MYC protein, which is commonly overactive in many cancers. The team is using a specialized assay to identify small molecules that can block the interaction between MYC and its essential cofactor, TRRAP. By testing these compounds in cancer cell models, particularly in triple negative breast cancer, they aim to determine their effectiveness in reducing cancer cell growth. The ultimate goal is to advance the most promising compounds towards preclinical testing.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers characterized by high levels of MYC expression, such as triple negative breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not involve MYC overexpression or those with non-malignant conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies for patients with various types of cancer, particularly those with high MYC activity.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting MYC-related pathways, indicating that this approach could be a viable strategy for cancer treatment.

Where this research is happening

HANOVER, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers, neoplasm/cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.