Targeting two key proteins to improve melanoma treatment

Combined inhibition of PLK1 and NOTCH for melanoma management

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · WM S. MIDDLETON MEMORIAL VETERANS HOSP · NIH-11098414

This study is looking at how blocking two specific proteins can help fight melanoma and make treatments work better, so patients can have more effective options for managing their condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWM S. MIDDLETON MEMORIAL VETERANS HOSP (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11098414 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the combined inhibition of two proteins, PLK1 and NOTCH, to combat melanoma progression and drug resistance. By using human-relevant melanoma mouse models, the study aims to uncover new signaling mechanisms that influence how melanoma responds to treatment. The goal is to develop a more effective therapeutic strategy that overcomes the limitations of current melanoma treatments, which often fail to provide lasting results. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how these proteins interact and affect tumor growth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with melanoma, particularly those who have not responded well to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with non-melanoma skin cancers or those who have already achieved a durable response to current melanoma treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for melanoma, potentially improving patient outcomes and survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting PLK1 and NOTCH is innovative, similar combinatorial strategies in cancer treatment have shown promise in other studies, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

MADISON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.