Targeting a specific type of kidney cancer with new therapies

Therapeutic targeting of VHL-deficient clear cell renal cell carcinoma

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-11003694

This study is looking for new ways to treat clear cell kidney cancer by testing special drugs that could help target cancer cells with a specific mutation, aiming to offer better options for patients who are facing this tough condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11003694 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new treatments for clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), a type of kidney cancer that often resists current therapies. The approach utilizes synthetic lethality screens to identify compounds that can selectively kill cancer cells with a specific mutation while sparing normal cells. The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors, particularly CDK9 inhibitors, in targeting VHL-deficient ccRCCs. If successful, these therapies could lead to improved treatment options for patients with this challenging cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with VHL-deficient clear cell renal cell carcinoma who have not responded well to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of kidney cancer or those whose tumors do not have VHL mutations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide more effective treatment options for patients with VHL-deficient clear cell renal cell carcinoma.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using synthetic lethality approaches for cancer treatment, indicating potential success for this novel strategy.

Where this research is happening

IRVINE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.