Targeting cancer cells and their surrounding support using a specialized therapy
Developmental therapy for selectively targeting MEK-ERK pathway in cancer cells and tumor stromal compartment
This study is testing a new cancer treatment that uses a special delivery system to target and stop tumor growth while being kinder to healthy cells, so patients can hopefully experience fewer side effects and better results.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061325 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new therapy that selectively targets the MEK-ERK pathway, which is often mutated in various cancers. By using an engineered anthrax toxin-based protein delivery system, the therapy aims to inhibit tumor growth while minimizing damage to normal cells. The approach involves manipulating specific receptors on tumor and stromal cells to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. Patients may benefit from a more effective and safer cancer therapy that reduces side effects associated with current treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that have mutations in the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers not associated with the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective cancer treatment that specifically targets tumors while sparing healthy cells.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting the MEK-ERK pathway, but this specific approach using anthrax toxin is novel.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Shihui — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Liu, Shihui
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.