Targeting cancer cells with engineered RNA to kill them
Official title: Ribozyme-mediated killing of cells harboring cancer driver mutations
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11142448 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $222,721 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EB036277-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11142448 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that have specific driver mutations targeted by the ribozymes being developed.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without identifiable cancer driver mutations or those with advanced-stage cancers may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leier, André — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Leier, André
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
IOP and CSF Pressure in Glaucoma Risk
This grant studies how eye pressure and cerebrospinal fluid pressure together influence glaucoma risk and vision loss.
-
Exploring how Down syndrome affects optic nerve health in kids
A study using a mouse model to understand why optic nerve problems are common in children with Down syndrome and how to prevent them.
-
Global bromocriptine trial for postpartum cardiomyopathy
A large international study will test whether adding bromocriptine to standard heart failure treatment helps new mothers with peripartum cardiomyopathy.
-
Global Bromocriptine Add-on for Postpartum Heart Failure (GLOBal PPCM)
A large international study will test whether adding the dopamine agonist bromocriptine to standard heart failure care helps postpartum women with a specific heart condition.
-
Global Bromocriptine Trial for Postpartum Heart Failure (GLOBal PPCM)
A large international study will test whether adding bromocriptine to standard heart-failure care helps women with postpartum cardiomyopathy.
-
Bromocriptine as add-on therapy for postpartum cardiomyopathy across multiple sites
A large international study will test whether adding bromocriptine to standard heart failure treatment helps new mothers with postpartum cardiomyopathy.
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.