Targeting a specific protein to treat advanced ovarian cancer

Targeting CDK7 in high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10894152

This study is looking at a new way to help people with advanced ovarian cancer by targeting a specific protein that helps cancer cells survive, hoping to make current treatments work better for those who have few options left.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10894152 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on advanced high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC), a severe form of ovarian cancer that often becomes resistant to standard treatments. The approach involves targeting a protein called CDK7, which is crucial for cancer cell survival and is often lost in these tumors. By inhibiting CDK7, the research aims to enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies and potentially improve outcomes for patients who have limited treatment options. The study will explore how this targeted therapy can work in conjunction with other treatments to combat the disease more effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with advanced high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma who have experienced treatment resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage ovarian cancer or those whose cancer is not high-grade serous may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for patients with advanced ovarian cancer, particularly those who have become resistant to current therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting CDK proteins in various cancers, suggesting that this approach may be effective for HGSOC as well.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 CauseCancer EtiologyCancer TreatmentCancers
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.