Targeting a specific cancer protein in aggressive sarcomas affecting young people
Therapeutic degradation of Capicua (CIC) fused oncoproteins in undifferentiated sarcomas
This study is looking at a tough type of cancer called undifferentiated sarcomas, especially in kids and young adults, to find out how a specific protein helps the cancer grow and spread, and they hope to create new treatments that can target and break down this protein to help patients feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088242 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on a dangerous type of cancer called undifferentiated sarcomas, particularly those associated with a protein fusion known as CIC-DUX4, which is common in children, adolescents, and young adults. The researchers aim to understand how this oncoprotein contributes to tumor growth and spread, and they are exploring ways to degrade it using a targeted approach that activates specific cellular pathways. By identifying vulnerabilities in the cancer cells, the goal is to develop new, precision-based therapies that could improve treatment outcomes for affected patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children, adolescents, and young adults diagnosed with undifferentiated sarcomas associated with the CIC-DUX4 fusion oncoprotein.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancers or those whose tumors do not express the CIC-DUX4 fusion may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target and degrade harmful cancer proteins, potentially improving survival rates for young patients with aggressive sarcomas.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, previous studies have shown promise in targeting similar oncoproteins in other cancers, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Okimoto, Ross — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Okimoto, Ross
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.