Targeting cancer cells with engineered RNA to kill them
Ribozyme-mediated killing of cells harboring cancer driver mutations
This study is testing a new way to help treat cancer by using special RNA molecules that can target and kill only cancer cells while leaving healthy cells alone, making it a potentially safer option for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11142448 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to selectively kill cancer cells while sparing healthy cells by using engineered RNA molecules called ribozymes. These ribozymes are designed to specifically target and destroy the mRNA of cancer genes that harbor mutations, which are responsible for cancer cell survival and proliferation. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of these ribozymes in distinguishing between cancerous and healthy cells, utilizing a combinatorial method to optimize ribozyme sequences for maximum specificity and efficiency. By focusing on the mutations in driver genes, this research aims to provide a more direct and effective cancer treatment strategy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that have specific driver mutations targeted by the ribozymes being developed.
Not a fit: Patients without identifiable cancer driver mutations or those with advanced-stage cancers may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer therapies that specifically target and eliminate cancer cells without harming normal cells.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of ribozymes in cancer therapy is a novel approach, similar targeted therapies have shown promise in other contexts, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leier, André — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Leier, André
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.