Targeting and breaking down specific cancer proteins in lung cancer
Official title: Targeted Degradation of EGFR and HER2 in NSCLC
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10979401 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new treatment for non-small cell lung cancer that targets specific proteins that help the cancer grow and resist current therapies, with the hope that it can help patients who aren't responding to existing treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | July 18, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $503,685 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA285391-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979401 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with non-small cell lung cancer, particularly those whose tumors have mutations in the EGFR or HER2 proteins.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of lung cancer or those whose tumors do not express EGFR or HER2 mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly how certain proteins, EGFR and HER2, contribute to cancer growth and resistance to treatment. The study investigates a new agent, PEPDG278D, which can induce the degradation of these proteins, potentially overcoming the resistance seen with current therapies. By using preclinical models, the researchers aim to understand how effectively this approach can inhibit cancer cells that are resistant to existing EGFR inhibitors. Patients may benefit from this innovative strategy that targets the underlying mechanisms of drug resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with NSCLC who currently have limited options due to drug resistance.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be a viable option.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Yuesheng — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Yuesheng
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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.