Understanding how a specific RNA modification affects prostate cancer cell response to stress
Official title: Deciphering the role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) on mRNA during adaptive stress
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11070711 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in the genetic material of prostate cancer cells can affect their ability to handle stress and resist treatment, with the hope that blocking these changes might make the cancer more responsive to therapies, ultimately helping patients get better results from their treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $49,538 |
| NIH project number | 1F31CA298575-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070711 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer who are experiencing treatment resistance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage prostate cancer or those not undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications on mRNA in prostate cancer cells, particularly how these modifications influence the cells' ability to adapt to stress and resist treatment. By examining the Integrated Stress Response (ISR) pathway, which is activated by various stressors, the study aims to uncover how m6A affects the translation of specific mRNAs during this response. The researchers will explore whether inhibiting m6A can make prostate cancer cells more sensitive to existing therapies, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes for patients. This work involves laboratory experiments using prostate cancer cell lines to assess the impact of m6A on cell growth and treatment resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance the effectiveness of current prostate cancer treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting RNA modifications like m6A to improve cancer treatment outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kiledjian, Nora — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Kiledjian, Nora
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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.