Targeting a specific gene to treat certain types of cancers
Advancing WRN as a synthetic lethal target for microsatellite unstable cancers
This study is looking at how a gene called WRN helps certain types of cancer cells survive, and it hopes to find ways to block this gene to make those cancer cells easier to treat, especially for patients who haven't had success with current therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10903796 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the WRN gene in microsatellite unstable (MSI) cancers, which are characterized by genetic hypermutability due to faulty DNA repair mechanisms. The project aims to understand how WRN helps these cancer cells survive and how inhibiting it could lead to their destruction. By using advanced techniques in genomics and biochemistry, the researchers will explore the potential of WRN as a target for new cancer therapies, particularly for patients who do not respond to existing treatments like immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with microsatellite unstable cancers, such as certain types of colon cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with microsatellite stable cancers or those who do not have genetic mutations related to MSI may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients with MSI cancers, improving their chances of survival.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting DNA repair mechanisms in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be a viable strategy for treating MSI cancers.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chan, Edmond — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Chan, Edmond
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.