Targeting the KRAS cancer protein with small-molecule drugs
Dissecting KRAS oncoprotein signaling with small molecule inhibitors
Researchers are exploring small molecules that can lock the KRAS cancer protein off to help people with tumors driven by KRAS mutations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11173605 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, the team is studying how the KRAS protein switches between an ‘on’ and ‘off’ state and why common cancer mutations make it stay on. They focus on how small-molecule inhibitors bind KRAS (especially the G12C mutation) and trap it in the off state. Work uses biochemical tests, cell models, and tumor-derived samples to see when inhibitors work and why resistance can occur. The findings aim to guide better drug designs and combinations for KRAS-driven cancers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People whose tumors carry KRAS mutations (for example KRAS G12C in lung cancer) would be the most relevant patients for this line of research and future trials.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not have KRAS mutations or who are driven by unrelated molecular pathways are unlikely to benefit from KRAS-targeted approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to improved targeted drugs or treatment strategies for patients with KRAS-mutant cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Drugs targeting KRAS G12C have already shown clinical benefit, but many other KRAS mutations remain difficult to target and resistance can develop.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lito, Piro — Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
- Study coordinator: Lito, Piro
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.