Targeting the DCLK1 protein in liver cancer
Molecular targeting of DCLK1 signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · OKLAHOMA CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11212805
This project explores whether blocking a protein called DCLK1 can slow tumor growth in people with cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | OKLAHOMA CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (OKLAHOMA CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11212805 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying why the DCLK1 protein is high in damaged livers and liver cancers and how it links to an unusual β-catenin signaling pathway. They will examine human liver samples, run lab experiments in liver cancer cells, and use mouse models to see how DCLK1 affects tumor growth. The team will test genetic and drug-based ways to block DCLK1 signaling and measure effects on tumor behavior. Work is based at the Oklahoma City VA and could lead to opportunities for tissue donation or future clinical testing if results are promising.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma — especially those whose tumors show high DCLK1 levels — would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without liver disease, with non-hepatic cancers, or whose tumors do not express DCLK1 are unlikely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to new targeted treatments that slow tumor growth and improve outcomes for people with hepatocellular carcinoma.
How similar studies have performed: Targeting DCLK1 is a relatively new idea: preclinical studies in cells and animal models show promise but there are no proven DCLK1 therapies in patients yet.
Where this research is happening
OKLAHOMA CITY, UNITED STATES
- OKLAHOMA CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER — OKLAHOMA CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HOUCHEN, COURTNEY WAYNE — OKLAHOMA CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: HOUCHEN, COURTNEY WAYNE
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.
Conditions: Alcoholic Liver Diseases