Targeting a specific enzyme to improve melanoma treatment

Targeting a PHGDH metabolic vulnerability in melanoma

NIH-funded research H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst · NIH-10865193

This study is looking at a specific enzyme that helps melanoma cells grow, and it aims to find new ways to block this enzyme to starve the cancer cells of a nutrient they need, which could lead to better treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project IDNIH-10865193 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a metabolic vulnerability in melanoma by focusing on the enzyme phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PHGDH), which is crucial for cancer cell growth. The study aims to develop new strategies to inhibit PHGDH and limit the availability of Serine, a nutrient that cancer cells need to thrive. By understanding how melanoma cells adapt their metabolism, researchers hope to create more effective treatment options that can overcome current limitations in therapy. Patients may benefit from innovative combination therapies that target this metabolic pathway.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with melanoma, particularly those who have not responded well to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with non-melanoma skin cancers or those who are not currently undergoing treatment for melanoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for melanoma, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Tampa, 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.