Targeting mitochondria in lung cancer treatment
Official title: Targeting tumor cell mitochondria for the prevention and treatment of lung cancer
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11047011 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new drug called mitomet that aims to help people with lung cancer, especially those with tough-to-treat tumors, by making cancer cells more vulnerable to stress, which could lead to better treatment results.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $352,275 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA285608-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047011 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, particularly those with Kras and LKB1 mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lung cancer types that do not involve Kras or LKB1 mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new treatments for lung cancer, specifically targeting tumors with mutations in the Kras and LKB1 genes. The approach involves using a specialized drug, mitomet, which is designed to accumulate in the mitochondria of cancer cells and increase oxidative stress, potentially leading to cancer cell death. By enhancing the vulnerability of these tumors to oxidative stress, the research aims to improve treatment outcomes, especially for aggressive lung cancers that are resistant to current therapies. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in trials assessing the effectiveness of this novel treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with aggressive lung cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting mitochondrial pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kassie, Fekadu — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Kassie, Fekadu
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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.