Targeting cancer by blocking a key protein involved in gene expression
Official title: Direct Targeting of MYC in Cancer with Hyperstable Synthetic Transcriptional Repressors
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10858306 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on creating new molecules that can block a protein called MYC, which is involved in many cancers, to help develop better treatments that target the root causes of the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $377,870 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA289378-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10858306 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with cancers that are driven by MYC, which includes a wide range of tumor types.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose cancers are not driven by MYC or those with advanced-stage cancers that have already progressed despite treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing synthetic molecules that can effectively inhibit the MYC protein, which is a major driver of cancer in about 70% of cases. By creating synthetic transcriptional repressors that can bind to MYC's DNA targets with high specificity, the research aims to block the oncogenic effects of MYC. The approach involves advanced chemical techniques to enhance the stability and effectiveness of these synthetic molecules, potentially leading to new cancer therapies. Patients may benefit from more effective treatments that specifically target the underlying mechanisms of their cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments that specifically target the MYC protein, improving outcomes for patients with various cancers.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting transcription factors like MYC has been challenging, there is emerging evidence that synthetic approaches can yield promising results, indicating potential for success in this novel strategy.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moellering, Raymond E — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Moellering, Raymond E
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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.