Targeting a specific cancer driver in a type of childhood cancer

Targeting mTORC1 translational control in FOXO1 fusion positive rhabdomyosarcoma

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10979766

This study is looking at a type of childhood cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma, especially the cases caused by a specific gene change, and it's exploring how a new kind of medicine can help fight this cancer and improve treatment for kids who have it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10979766 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on a specific type of childhood cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma, particularly those cases driven by a genetic fusion known as PAX3-FOXO1. The researchers are investigating how this fusion affects cancer cell behavior and how it can be targeted using a new class of drugs that inhibit a pathway called mTORC1. By understanding the molecular mechanisms involved, they aim to develop more effective treatments that could lead to better outcomes for affected children. The study will involve both laboratory experiments and analysis of patient-derived models to identify the best strategies for overcoming treatment resistance.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old diagnosed with PAX3-FOXO1 fusion positive rhabdomyosarcoma.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of rhabdomyosarcoma or those without the PAX3-FOXO1 fusion may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for children with PAX3-FOXO1 fusion positive rhabdomyosarcoma, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: This approach is based on promising preliminary results from similar studies using mTORC1 inhibitors, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
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.