Understanding and targeting a protein called PAK4 in Ewing sarcoma
Dissecting and targeting PAK4 in Ewing sarcoma
This research explores a specific protein in Ewing sarcoma to find new ways to treat patients with this bone cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11145239 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Ewing sarcoma is a type of bone cancer that often affects children and young adults, and while current treatments help many, outcomes for those with advanced or recurring cancer are still very challenging. This project focuses on a protein called PAK4, which our laboratory has found to be highly active and linked to the spread of Ewing sarcoma. We are working to understand how PAK4 helps the cancer grow and spread, and how we might develop new medications to block its activity. The goal is to create more effective and targeted treatments for patients, especially those with high-risk Ewing sarcoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational laboratory research is for patients with Ewing sarcoma, particularly those with advanced or recurring forms of the disease, who may benefit from future targeted therapies.
Not a fit: Patients without Ewing sarcoma or those whose cancer does not involve the specific PAK4 protein may not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new targeted therapies or combination treatments that improve long-term survival rates for patients with metastatic or relapsed Ewing sarcoma.
How similar studies have performed: While PAK4 is an emerging target, other studies have shown success in targeting similar proteins in cancer, suggesting a promising path for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yustein, Jason — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Yustein, Jason
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.