Targeting mutant p53 proteins in cancer treatment

Mutant p53 gain-of-function as an actionable target in cancer therapy

NIH-funded research State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-10903759

This study is looking at how changes in a gene called p53, which often happens in different cancers, can create proteins that help cancer grow instead of stopping it, and by using mice to learn more about this, the researchers hope to find new ways to treat certain types of cancer better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stony Brook, United States)
Project IDNIH-10903759 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how certain mutations in the p53 gene, which are common in various cancers, lead to the production of mutant proteins that promote cancer growth instead of suppressing it. The team has developed mouse models to study these mutations and their effects on tumor development and progression. By understanding the mechanisms of these mutant proteins, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies that could specifically target and inhibit their oncogenic activities, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients with specific cancer types.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that have been identified to harbor specific p53 mutations, particularly those with aggressive forms of cancer.

Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not involve p53 mutations or those with p53 mutations that do not exhibit gain-of-function properties may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies that improve survival rates for patients with cancers driven by mutant p53 proteins.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting mutant p53 proteins, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Stony Brook, 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.
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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.