Targeting FEN1 to improve cancer treatment

FEN1 Endonuclease as a Synthetic Lethal Target for Cancer Therapy

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10884209

This study is looking at how a specific protein called FEN1 can help improve cancer treatments for people with inherited breast and ovarian cancers caused by BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, with the goal of finding new ways to target and kill cancer cells more effectively.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10884209 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the FEN1 endonuclease in cancer therapy, particularly for patients with inherited breast and ovarian cancers linked to BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. By understanding how FEN1 interacts with other genes involved in genome stability, the research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies that exploit these interactions to selectively kill cancer cells. The approach involves using genetic studies and model systems to identify potential treatment targets that could enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with hereditary breast or ovarian cancers associated with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations.

Not a fit: Patients without BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments for patients with specific genetic mutations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in targeting synthetic lethal interactions in cancer therapy, particularly with PARP inhibitors for BRCA-related cancers.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Anti-Cancer Agents
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.