Understanding how a molecule called thioredoxin affects age-related cancer
Reduced thioredoxin in both the cytosol and mitochondria: a key modulator of age-related cancer development in Trx1KO x Trx2KO mice?
This research explores how changing the levels of a molecule called thioredoxin in cells impacts the development of cancer as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11115725 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells contain a molecule called thioredoxin, which helps maintain a healthy environment inside them and supports important protein functions. This project looks at how having less thioredoxin in both the main part of the cell and its energy centers (mitochondria) might reduce the formation of tumors as mice get older. We've seen that lowering thioredoxin levels in mice can lead to fewer spontaneous tumors and a slightly longer life. Conversely, increasing thioredoxin levels seems to boost cancer development and shorten lifespan. By understanding these mechanisms, we hope to uncover new ways to prevent age-related cancers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals at risk for or living with age-related cancers in the future.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by age-related cancers or those seeking immediate treatment options may not directly benefit from this early-stage research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating age-related cancers by targeting thioredoxin pathways.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies by this research group have shown that altering thioredoxin levels in mice impacts oxidative stress and cancer development.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ikeno, Yuji — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Ikeno, Yuji
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.