Targeting cancer cell survival proteins to promote tumor cell death

Dual inhibition of MDM2 and XIAP as a therapeutic strategy in cancer

NIH-funded research University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10871884

This study is exploring a new treatment that uses a special compound called MX69 to help kill cancer cells by blocking two proteins that help them survive, and it could be especially helpful for patients with tumors that struggle to respond to current therapies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Memphis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10871884 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new therapeutic approach that targets two proteins, MDM2 and XIAP, which help cancer cells survive and resist treatment. By using a compound called MX69, the study aims to block the interaction between these proteins, leading to increased cancer cell death. The research employs high-throughput screening methods to identify effective compounds and focuses on tumors that overexpress MDM2 and XIAP, which are often associated with poor treatment outcomes. Patients may benefit from this innovative strategy if it proves effective in clinical settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that show high levels of MDM2 and XIAP expression.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not overexpress MDM2 and XIAP may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively kill cancer cells and overcome resistance to existing therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Memphis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.