Understanding how a specific metabolic pathway affects cancer spread
Decoding and targeting saccharopine pathway in cancer metastasis
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme in our cells might help cancer spread, and it's hoping to find new ways to treat cancer by understanding this process better, which could eventually help patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11009575 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the saccharopine pathway in cancer metastasis, focusing on a mitochondrial enzyme called aminoadipate-semialdehyde synthase (AASS). By using advanced techniques such as RNA interference and metabolic assays, the study aims to uncover how AASS influences cancer cell invasion and the overall metastatic process. The research involves both laboratory experiments and genomic profiling to explore the underlying mechanisms that link AASS activity to cancer progression. Patients may benefit from insights gained about targeting this pathway for new cancer therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic cancers, particularly lung and head/neck cancers.
Not a fit: Patients with non-metastatic cancers or those whose cancer does not involve the saccharopine pathway may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that specifically target cancer metastasis, potentially improving outcomes for patients with aggressive cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights and advancements.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kang, Sumin — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Kang, Sumin
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.