Targeting liver cancer driven by FGF19 with modified FGF21

Therapeutic targeting of FGF19-driven cancers with FGF21 variants

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-10906654

This study is looking at new ways to treat liver cancer by understanding how a protein called FGF19 helps cancer grow and testing modified versions of another protein, FGF21, to see if they can stop that growth, which could lead to better treatment options for people with this type of cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-10906654 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new therapeutic options for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, which currently has limited treatment choices. The study investigates the role of Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 (FGF19) in promoting cancer cell growth and explores how modified versions of Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 (FGF21) can inhibit this process. By enhancing the binding affinity of FGF21 variants to specific receptors, the research aims to block the cancer-promoting effects of FGF19, potentially leading to more effective treatments for patients with HCC.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma who have limited treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with liver cancer types other than hepatocellular carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, more effective treatment option for patients suffering from liver cancer.

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

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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 Cancers
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.