Targeting prostate cancer cells with DNA-damaging toxins

Enhanced delivery of site-specific DNA damaging toxins to prostate cancercells

NIH-funded research University of North Carolina Wilmington · NIH-10654187

This study is working on new treatments for prostate cancer that aim to directly attack cancer cells and make them die, while also trying to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of North Carolina Wilmington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Wilmington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10654187 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to create new molecules that specifically target prostate cancer cells and induce lethal DNA damage, leading to cell death. By focusing on the androgen receptor, which is overexpressed in these cancer cells, the study seeks to deliver toxins directly to the nucleus of the cells, causing clustered DNA damage. This approach is designed to improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy while minimizing harmful side effects. The research builds on previous successes in targeting breast cancer cells, adapting the strategy for prostate cancer treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with prostate cancer who may benefit from new targeted therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who do not have prostate cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less toxic treatments for prostate cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in targeting breast cancer cells using similar approaches, indicating potential for this method in prostate cancer as well.

Where this research is happening

Wilmington, 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 Breast Cancer
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.