Understanding how a specific enzyme affects cancer progression
Official title: Insights into Structure-Function Relationships of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 from Computational and Experimental Studies
Funded at Michigan Technological University · NIH-10730598 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called MMP-1 that plays a role in how some cancers grow, and it's trying to find out how changes in this protein can affect cancer, with the hope of creating new treatments that could help patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan Technological University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houghton, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2020 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $427,001 |
| NIH project number | 2R15GM132873-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10730598 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, lung cancer, leukemia, or melanoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers not related to MMP-1 activity or those without a current diagnosis of cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the structure and function of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), an enzyme linked to the progression of various cancers, including breast, lung, and melanoma. By using both computational methods and experimental studies, the researchers aim to uncover how changes in MMP-1's structure influence its activity and how this relates to disease. The study focuses on the enzyme's interactions with collagen, a key protein in the body, to develop specific inhibitors that could potentially halt cancer progression. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new treatment options targeting MMP-1.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies that inhibit MMP-1, potentially improving outcomes for patients with certain types of cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar enzymes for cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karabencheva-Christova, Tatyana — Michigan Technological University
- Study coordinator: Karabencheva-Christova, Tatyana
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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.