Understanding how a protein called CAR works in human liver cancer
Novel noncanonical actions of CAR in human Liver
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE · NIH-11124748
This project looks at how a protein called CAR acts in human liver cells to understand its role in liver cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11124748 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project explores the role of a specific protein, CAR, in the development and progression of liver cancer in humans. While CAR is known for helping the body process drugs, it also seems to play other roles in cell growth and energy use. Previous studies in animals suggested that activating CAR could lead to liver tumors, but this effect hasn't been seen in human liver cells or in people. We want to understand exactly how human CAR affects the growth of liver cancer cells and what molecular processes are involved. Our findings show that human CAR levels are lower in liver cancer compared to healthy liver tissue, and these lower levels are linked to worse outcomes for patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future studies stemming from this work might seek patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or those at risk for liver cancer.
Not a fit: Patients not currently affected by liver cancer or related conditions would not directly benefit from this specific foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to understand and potentially treat liver cancer by targeting the CAR protein.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of CAR in animal liver cancer is established, its specific noncanonical actions and role in human liver cancer progression are novel and less understood.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WANG, HONGBING — UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE
- Study coordinator: WANG, HONGBING
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.
Conditions: Cancer Causing Agents, Cancer Genes, Cancer-Promoting Gene