Targeting a specific enzyme to improve treatment for BRAF mutant colorectal cancer
Official title: Targeting LSD1 to prevent therapy-induced transdifferentiation in BRAF mutant colorectal cancer
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11062458 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special enzyme called LSD1 might help improve treatment for patients with a tough type of colorectal cancer that has a BRAF mutation, aiming to make current therapies work better and help patients feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $434,552 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA286090-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11062458 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer harboring BRAF mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with colorectal cancer that does not have BRAF mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how targeting the enzyme LSD1 can help prevent a harmful change in cell identity that occurs in some colorectal cancer patients treated with standard therapies. The study focuses on patients with BRAF mutant colorectal cancer, which often does not respond well to current treatments. By understanding the role of enteroendocrine cell progenitors in cancer cell survival, the research aims to enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies and improve patient outcomes. The approach involves both laboratory studies and potential clinical applications to better manage this challenging cancer type.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options and longer survival for patients with BRAF mutant colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting LSD1 in colorectal cancer is a novel approach, similar strategies have shown promise in other cancer types, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'hagan, Heather M — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: O'hagan, Heather M
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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.