Understanding and targeting a new pathway for small cell lung cancer

Mechanisms of action and therapeutic targeting of the CARM1-NFIB axis in small cell lung cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR · NIH-11092288

This research explores a new way to stop small cell lung cancer from growing and spreading by focusing on specific proteins in cancer cells.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11092288 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Small cell lung cancer has not seen many new treatments in decades, and there are no targeted therapies available. Our team found that a protein called CARM1 works with another protein, NFIB, which helps SCLC grow and spread. We believe that by understanding how CARM1 changes NFIB, we can find new ways to stop the cancer. We are also looking at a third protein, TRIM29, that is part of this important pathway. The goal is to develop new medicines that specifically target these proteins to treat SCLC.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is for patients with small cell lung cancer who may benefit from future targeted treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those not seeking new targeted therapies for SCLC may not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the first targeted therapies for small cell lung cancer, offering new hope for patients.

How similar studies have performed: This approach focuses on a newly discovered signaling pathway, representing a novel strategy for small cell lung cancer where targeted therapies are currently lacking.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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 →

Conditions: Cancer Model, Cancer Patient, CancerModel, Cancers

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.