Targeting a Specific Gene Mutation in Cancer
Selectively Targeting Oncogenic NRAS in Cancer
This research aims to find new ways to stop the growth of cancers driven by a specific gene mutation called oncogenic NRAS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 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-11052458 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many cancers are caused by mutations in a gene called RAS, which makes cancer cells grow uncontrollably. Currently, there are no approved targeted treatments for these types of cancers, making them very difficult to treat. This project is exploring a new strategy by focusing on a process called N-Ras palmitoylation, which helps the mutated N-Ras protein move around inside cancer cells. By developing medicines that can block this process, we hope to stop the growth of cancers that depend on the mutated N-Ras, without harming healthy cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for adult patients with cancers, such as Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), that have specific oncogenic NRAS gene mutations.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not have oncogenic NRAS mutations would likely not benefit from therapies developed through this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the first targeted therapies for cancers with oncogenic NRAS mutations, offering new treatment options for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Currently, no targeted therapies have been approved for Ras-driven cancers, making this a novel and much-needed area of drug discovery.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shannon, Kevin M. — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Shannon, Kevin M.
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.