Targeting cancer cells lacking the RB1 gene
Official title: Combined targeting of synthetic lethal partners in RB1-deficient cells
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11004363 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to treat certain cancers, like retinoblastomas and breast cancers, that have a specific gene mutation, by targeting two genes at once to help kill the cancer cells, and it's designed for patients with these RB1-related tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $79,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R03CA286521-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004363 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with cancers that have mutations in the RB1 gene, such as retinoblastomas, small cell lung cancers, and triple-negative breast cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose cancers do not involve RB1 mutations or those with other unrelated cancer types may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treat cancers that have mutations in the RB1 tumor suppressor gene, which is commonly found in various tumors such as retinoblastomas and breast cancers. The study focuses on synthetic lethality, where two genes are targeted simultaneously to kill cancer cells that would survive if only one gene were affected. By identifying and targeting specific gene interactions, the research aims to develop effective therapies for patients with RB1-deficient tumors. The methodology involves genetic screening and testing in human cancer cell lines and patient samples to validate potential treatment targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies for patients with RB1-deficient cancers, improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting synthetic lethal interactions in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parkhitko, Andrey a — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Parkhitko, Andrey a
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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.