Targeting a specific pathway to overcome treatment resistance in ovarian cancer

Targeting Wnt signaling in therapy-resistant ovarian cancer

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10977495

This study is looking at how a specific cell signaling process affects the way high-grade serous ovarian cancer resists certain treatments, and it aims to find out if a new drug that targets this process can work better when combined with another therapy to help boost the immune system and improve outcomes for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10977495 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the Wnt signaling pathway contributes to resistance against PARP inhibitors in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). By using specialized cell lines and patient-derived models, the team aims to understand the mechanisms behind this resistance and explore the potential of a new drug that inhibits Wnt signaling. The study will assess how combining this drug with immune checkpoint blockade therapy can enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve treatment outcomes for patients. Through both laboratory and animal models, the research seeks to uncover strategies to counteract the immune suppression caused by resistant cancer cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer who have shown resistance to PARP inhibitors.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of ovarian cancer or those who have not been treated with PARP inhibitors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with therapy-resistant ovarian cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways to enhance treatment efficacy in various cancers, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.