Targeting PLK1 to treat small cell lung cancer
Targeting polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) for treatment of small cell lung cancer
This project looks at drugs that block the PLK1 protein to help people with small cell lung cancer, especially tumors with TP53 changes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11245697 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are testing PLK1-blocking drugs in lab-grown small cell lung cancer cells and in mice implanted with human tumors. An unbiased screen identified several PLK1 inhibitors (rigosertib, volasertib, CYC140, Onvansertib) with strong activity against SCLC cell lines. The team confirmed these findings in traditional and patient-derived tumor graft models and observed that tumors with TP53 inactivation are often more sensitive. These preclinical results are intended to guide future clinical trials to see if PLK1 inhibitors benefit patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with relapsed or advanced small cell lung cancer, particularly whose tumors show TP53 gene alterations.
Not a fit: Patients without small cell lung cancer, or whose tumors lack PLK1 dependence or TP53-related vulnerabilities, are less likely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new targeted treatments for small cell lung cancer and help identify which patients are most likely to benefit.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory and animal studies have shown PLK1 inhibitors can shrink SCLC tumors, but evidence of clinical benefit in patients is still limited.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Owonikoko, Taofeek K — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Owonikoko, Taofeek K
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 below.