Targeting and degrading hard-to-treat proteins using DNA technology

Programmable and Conditional Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras Enabled by DNA Nanotechnology

['FUNDING_R01'] · ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY-TEMPE CAMPUS · NIH-11134634

This study is exploring new ways to create treatments that can target and break down tough proteins that regular medications can't handle, which could lead to better therapies for conditions like cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY-TEMPE CAMPUS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TEMPE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11134634 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative strategies to target and degrade proteins that are difficult to treat with traditional medications. By utilizing proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and DNA nanotechnology, the project aims to create a more effective drug delivery system that can selectively activate the degradation of specific proteins. This approach could potentially overcome current limitations in drug permeability and selectivity, making it easier to treat conditions like cancer. Patients may benefit from new therapies that can effectively target previously 'undruggable' proteins.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include patients with cancers characterized by undruggable protein targets, such as certain breast cancer types.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve the targeted protein degradation or those who are not responsive to proteolysis-targeting therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients with cancers and other diseases that involve hard-to-target proteins.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using PROTACs and nucleic acid-based therapies, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

TEMPE, 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 →

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.