Understanding how ATR signaling affects cancer cell survival and treatment.
Mechanisms and Functions of ATR signaling
This study is looking at how a protein called ATR helps cancer cells stay alive during cell division, especially when their DNA is damaged, and it aims to find ways to block ATR to make cancer treatments work better for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11046949 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of ATR (ATM and rad3-related) kinase in maintaining genome stability during cell division and how its inhibition can enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies. By exploring the mechanisms of ATR signaling pathways, the study aims to identify how cancer cells rely on ATR for survival, especially under conditions of DNA damage. The research employs various biochemical and genetic approaches to uncover the specific functions of ATR in cancer cells, which could lead to the development of targeted therapies that exploit ATR's vulnerabilities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that exhibit high levels of replication stress and are currently undergoing treatment with DNA-damaging agents.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not rely on ATR signaling for survival or those who are not receiving DNA-damaging therapies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by identifying new therapeutic targets that enhance the efficacy of existing cancer drugs.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results with ATR inhibitors in clinical trials, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements in cancer treatment.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cortez, David K — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Cortez, David K
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.