Targeting cancer proteins for degradation using engineered peptides
Official title: Programmable peptide-guided protein degradation
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10741655 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help fight cancer by using a special technology to target and break down tough cancer-related proteins that regular treatments struggle with, which could lead to better options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $387,702 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA278468-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10741655 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that involve the targeted proteins identified as key cancer drivers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that do not involve the targeted proteins or those who are not responsive to protein degradation therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel approach to degrade specific cancer-related proteins that are difficult to target with traditional therapies. By utilizing a technology called proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC), the study aims to redirect the body's natural protein degradation pathways to eliminate these problematic proteins. The researchers will enhance this method by creating custom binding domains that can specifically target these proteins, potentially leading to more effective cancer treatments. Patients may benefit from new therapies that can more effectively target and degrade cancer-causing proteins.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by enabling the targeted degradation of previously intractable cancer proteins.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar protein degradation approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chatterjee, Pranam — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Chatterjee, Pranam
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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.