Understanding how a specific enzyme affects cancer spread

Elucidating pro-metastatic collagen modifying activities of lysyl hydroxylase 2

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11056804

This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called LH2 helps cancer cells spread by making the surrounding tissue stiffer, which could lead to new ways to treat cancer and improve patient care.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11056804 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of lysyl hydroxylase 2 (LH2), an enzyme that modifies collagen, in the spread of cancer cells. By studying how LH2 contributes to the formation of stable collagen cross-links that enhance tumor stiffness, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that allow cancer cells to invade surrounding tissues. The approach includes analyzing the structural properties of LH2 and its interactions with collagen, which could lead to new insights into cancer metastasis. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of how their tumors spread, potentially leading to targeted therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with metastatic cancers, particularly lung cancer, who may benefit from targeted therapies aimed at collagen modification.

Not a fit: Patients with non-metastatic cancers or those whose tumors do not involve collagen modification may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that inhibit cancer metastasis, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting collagen modification to inhibit cancer progression, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.