Understanding and treating a specific type of esophageal cancer with high NRF2 levels

Mechanisms and Targeted Therapy of NRF2-high Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

NIH-funded research Coriell Institute for Medical Research · NIH-11006288

This study is looking at a specific type of esophageal cancer that has high levels of a protein called NRF2, which might help the cancer grow, and the researchers want to find ways to block this protein to create better treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCoriell Institute for Medical Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Camden, United States)
Project IDNIH-11006288 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) that has high levels of NRF2, a protein that may drive cancer growth. The team will use genetic and pharmacological methods to explore how NRF2 is activated and how it interacts with other cellular pathways. By identifying the mechanisms behind this hyperactivation, they aim to develop targeted therapies that could inhibit NRF2 and improve treatment outcomes for patients with this aggressive cancer. The research includes testing small molecule inhibitors that could potentially be used in clinical settings if proven effective.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma exhibiting high levels of NRF2 activation.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of esophageal cancer or those without NRF2 hyperactivation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies that improve survival rates and quality of life for patients with NRF2-high ESCC.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in other cancers, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Camden, 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.
Conditions advanced disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.