Targeting genetic changes to treat skin cancer

Targeting epigenetic abnormalities to inhibit cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-10705718

This study is looking at how long-term sun exposure affects your genes and may lead to skin cancer, and it hopes to find new ways to reverse these changes to help stop tumor growth, which could lead to better treatments for people with skin cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10705718 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation leads to changes in the way genes are expressed, contributing to the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), a common type of skin cancer. The study aims to understand the specific epigenetic modifications that occur and how reversing these changes could inhibit tumor growth. Using advanced techniques like CRISPR-Cas9, researchers will focus on demethylating a key gene involved in tumor suppression to see if this can reactivate its protective functions against cancer. Patients may benefit from new treatment strategies that target these epigenetic alterations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma or those at high risk due to chronic UV exposure.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of skin cancer or those not affected by UV exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that effectively inhibit the growth of skin cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting epigenetic changes in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers, neoplasm/cancer, Cancer Causing Agents

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.