Targeting cancer-causing KRAS mutations with new DNA-based therapies
Targeting Oncogenic KRAS with Brush-Architectured Poly(ethylene glycol)-DNA Conjugates
This study is exploring a new treatment called pacDNA that aims to help people with non-small cell lung cancer caused by a gene mutation, making it easier for the medicine to work in cancer cells while potentially causing fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10880354 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel therapeutic approach to target mutant KRAS, a gene that plays a crucial role in many human tumors. The study utilizes a new form of nucleic acid therapy called pacDNA, which enhances the effectiveness of treatment by improving the stability and uptake of the therapeutic agents in cancer cells. By using advanced 3D cell culture models, the research aims to understand how pacDNA works within cells and its potential to reduce side effects compared to traditional therapies. The ultimate goal is to demonstrate the efficacy of pacDNA in treating KRAS-dependent non-small cell lung cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer that harbor KRAS mutations.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve KRAS mutations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatments for patients with KRAS-driven cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using nucleic acid therapies for cancer treatment, but this specific approach with pacDNA is novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Northeastern University — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Ke — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Ke
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 below.