Understanding how a protein called eIF4E drives cancer growth
Molecular Mechanisms of eIF4E Mediated Transformation
This research explores how a specific protein, eIF4E, helps cancer cells grow and spread, especially in acute myeloid leukemia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11103322 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have complex ways of making proteins from our genes, and sometimes these processes go wrong in cancer. This project looks at how a protein called eIF4E, which is often overactive in about 30% of cancers, changes how other proteins are made. We found that eIF4E can alter how RNA messages are put together, a process called splicing, which then creates different versions of proteins that help cancer thrive. By understanding these changes, we hope to uncover new ways that eIF4E fuels cancer growth and identify potential targets for new treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients with cancers where the eIF4E protein is overactive, such as acute myeloid leukemia, as it aims to uncover new treatment pathways.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not involve dysregulation of the eIF4E protein may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments for cancers, particularly acute myeloid leukemia, by targeting the specific ways eIF4E helps cancer cells grow.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of eIF4E in cancer is known, this project explores novel mechanisms of how it reprograms RNA splicing, building on existing knowledge but venturing into new territory.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Borden, Katherine L B — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Borden, Katherine L B
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.