Understanding how cancer cells use nutrients to survive and grow
Mechanistic insights into lysosomal nutrient efflux in cancer
This study is looking at how some cancer cells, especially those with RAS mutations, survive chemotherapy by using nutrients around them, and it’s testing whether blocking a specific protein called SLC38A9 can stop these cancer cells from growing without affecting healthy cells, which could help create new treatments for cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11063767 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain cancer cells, particularly those with RAS mutations, manage to survive chemotherapy by scavenging nutrients from their environment. The focus is on a specific protein, SLC38A9, which helps these cells recycle amino acids from digested proteins. By knocking out this protein, researchers aim to see if they can hinder the growth of these cancer cells while leaving normal cells unharmed. This approach could lead to new treatments that target the unique metabolic needs of cancer cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with RAS-mutated cancers, such as pancreatic cancer, who are undergoing or have undergone chemotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients with non-RAS mutated cancers or those not currently undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that specifically target and kill cancer cells while sparing healthy cells.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer cells, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rogala, Kacper — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Rogala, Kacper
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.