Targeting a specific protein in melanoma cells that resist treatment
Official title: Targeting TEAD in melanoma drug-tolerant persister cells
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-10997030 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how some melanoma cells can resist treatment and is testing new ways to help overcome that resistance, which could lead to better options for patients facing tough-to-treat melanoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2024 |
| Project end | July 4, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31CA288084-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997030 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are melanoma patients who have experienced treatment resistance, particularly those with low levels of SOX10.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with melanoma who have not developed resistance to current therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain melanoma cells become resistant to treatments, particularly focusing on drug-tolerant persister cells. It explores the role of a transcription factor called SOX10 and its relationship with TEAD signaling in these resistant cells. By utilizing novel inhibitors designed to target TEAD proteins, the research aims to reduce the expression of specific genes associated with drug tolerance. Patients may benefit from new treatment strategies that could overcome resistance to existing therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for melanoma patients who currently face drug resistance.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ott, Connor — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Ott, Connor
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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.