Understanding how a specific enzyme contributes to cancer spread
Official title: Mechanistic and structural insights into a new pro-metastatic collagen glucosyltransferase
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11011484 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new enzyme that helps cancer cells move and hide from the immune system, with the hope of finding new ways to stop lung cancer and other cancers from spreading.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | January 16, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $512,927 |
| NIH project number | 5R37CA278989-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011484 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with lung cancer or other cancers known to metastasize, particularly those with high levels of the collagen enzyme being studied.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-metastatic cancers or those whose cancer does not involve the collagen glucosyltransferase enzyme may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a newly identified enzyme, collagen glucosyltransferase, in the spread of lung cancer and other cancers. The study focuses on how this enzyme modifies collagen, which is crucial for cancer cell movement and the ability of tumors to evade the immune system. By examining the structure and function of this enzyme, researchers aim to uncover new therapeutic targets that could help in treating metastatic cancers. The findings could lead to the development of inhibitors that specifically target this enzyme to prevent cancer progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce cancer metastasis and improve patient survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar enzymes in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Houfu — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Guo, Houfu
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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.