Targeting RAS pathway therapies for treating a rare nerve sheath tumor
Official title: Advancing RAS pathway targeted therapy in NF1-MPNST: effects of SHP2 and CDK4/6 inhibitors on the tumor and the tumor immune microenvironment
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11089432 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to treat malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) by testing certain medications that might help slow down tumor growth and boost the immune system, so patients with this rare cancer can have better outcomes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | June 12, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $630,037 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA269625-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089432 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) who have limited treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of tumors or those who do not have MPNST may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates new treatment options for patients with malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST), a rare and challenging cancer. The team aims to explore the effects of specific inhibitors on tumor growth and the immune environment surrounding the tumor. By studying how these inhibitors interact with the RAS signaling pathway, the researchers hope to identify effective combinations that can enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve patient outcomes. The research will utilize a murine model to better understand the tumor's behavior and response to treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for patients with MPNST, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting the RAS pathway has shown promise in other cancers, this specific approach in MPNST is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pratilas, Christine Anne — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Pratilas, Christine Anne
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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.