Targeting copper delivery to fight cancer
Targeting vulnerabilities in copper metabolism in the development of cancer therapies
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA · NIH-11144542
Researchers are exploring whether blocking copper delivery inside cancer cells can slow tumor growth and spread for people with cancers such as breast and lung.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11144542 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This work focuses on a protein called ATP7A that cancer cells use to deliver copper to enzymes that help tumors grow and spread. The team uses lab-grown cancer cells and mouse models to see if disabling ATP7A lowers copper in tumors and reduces growth and metastasis. They measure tumor size, spread, and activity of copper-dependent enzymes and build on prior trials of copper-lowering drugs. If successful, the research could guide new therapies that specifically cut off copper supply to aggressive tumors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers that rely on copper-dependent enzymes—examples include some breast, lung, or mesothelioma cases—would be the most likely candidates for related therapies or future trials.
Not a fit: Patients whose tumors do not depend on copper pathways or who cannot tolerate copper-lowering approaches may not benefit from this strategy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new treatments that slow tumor growth and reduce metastasis by blocking copper delivery to cancer-driving enzymes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical trials using oral copper chelators showed slowed progression in mesothelioma and longer survival in some breast cancer patients, but directly targeting ATP7A is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA — COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PETRIS, MICHAEL J. — UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA
- Study coordinator: PETRIS, MICHAEL J.
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.