Understanding and targeting mutant p53 protein in cancer
The regulation of mutant p53 protein accumulation in cancer: molecular basis and therapeutic potential
This work looks at how a specific protein, mutant p53, builds up in cancer cells, especially in colorectal cancer, to find new ways to treat these cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11109424 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many cancers, including colorectal cancer, have a changed p53 protein that not only stops working correctly but also helps the cancer grow. This mutant p53 often builds up to high levels in cancer cells, which is important for its harmful effects. Our team is working to understand why this mutant p53 protein accumulates so much, focusing on another protein called MDM2B that seems to play a key role. By uncovering these mechanisms, we hope to discover new targets for medicines that can reduce mutant p53 and stop cancer growth. This could lead to more effective treatments for patients with cancers that have this specific mutation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients with cancers, particularly colorectal cancer, that have mutations in the p53 gene.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not involve mutant p53 protein accumulation or the specific mechanisms being studied may not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new drug targets and treatment strategies for cancers that carry the mutant p53 protein, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Destabilizing mutant p53 protein is an active area of research, and other studies are exploring similar strategies for cancer therapy.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feng, Zhaohui — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Feng, Zhaohui
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.