Targeting a specific protein to treat a type of aggressive ovarian cancer

Targeting CDK7 in CCNE1-amplified Ovarian Cancer

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11009930

This study is looking at a tough type of ovarian cancer that doesn't respond well to regular treatments, and it's testing a new approach that targets a specific protein to help kill the cancer cells, which could lead to better options for patients dealing with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11009930 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGS-OvCa), particularly tumors with CCNE1 gene amplification, which are known for their poor response to standard chemotherapy. The study aims to develop new therapies by targeting CDK7, an upstream activator of CDK2, which is crucial for the cancer cell cycle. By selectively inhibiting CDK7, the researchers hope to induce cell death in CCNE1-amplified ovarian cancer cells, offering a potential new treatment option for patients with this challenging cancer subtype.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma that exhibit amplification of the CCNE1 gene.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of ovarian cancer or those without CCNE1 amplification may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with CCNE1-amplified ovarian cancer, improving their outcomes and survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: While targeting CDK2 has faced challenges, preliminary evidence suggests that targeting CDK7 may be a novel and promising approach for treating CCNE1-amplified cancers.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
Conditions cancer cellCancer cell linecancer geneticsCancer ScienceCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.