Targeting cancer cells lacking the p53 gene to induce cell death
Official title: Simultaneous ROS production and DDR inhibition to trigger p53 synthetic lethality
Funded at Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo) · NIH-11048192 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new treatment for cancers that have changes in the p53 gene, which affects about half of all cancer patients, and it’s testing a special compound called 'KU' that can kill cancer cells without harming healthy ones, aiming to create better and safer therapies for those with these types of tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project start | March 11, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $560,458 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA285616-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048192 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with cancers that have p53 mutations or deletions, particularly osteosarcoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that do not involve p53 mutations or deletions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treat cancers that have mutations or deletions in the p53 gene, which is found in about 50% of human cancers. The study focuses on a compound called 'KU' and its analogs, which have shown the ability to induce cell death specifically in cancer cells while sparing normal cells. By understanding the mechanisms behind this selective toxicity, the researchers aim to develop more effective anti-cancer therapies that minimize side effects. Patients with p53-deficient tumors may benefit from these targeted treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less harmful cancer treatments for patients with p53-deficient tumors.
How similar studies have gone: While similar compounds have been explored, this specific approach using KU and its analogs has not yet been clinically proven, making it a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo)
Kansas City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Iwakuma, Tomoo — Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo)
- Study coordinator: Iwakuma, Tomoo
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.