Understanding how chromatin changes contribute to brain cancer development
Characterizing heterochromatin dysfunction as a driving alteration in cancer
This study is looking at how changes in the way our DNA is packaged in cells might lead to brain tumors, especially a type called malignant gliomas, and it hopes to find new ways to treat these tumors by understanding how the loss of a specific protein affects cancer growth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10653138 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of chromatin, the complex of DNA and proteins in cells, in the development of brain tumors, particularly malignant gliomas. It focuses on how disruptions in chromatin regulation, specifically through the loss of the ATRX protein, can lead to changes in gene expression and increased DNA damage. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover how these alterations contribute to cancer progression. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting these epigenetic changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with malignant gliomas or other brain tumors.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those without brain tumors may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target the mechanisms driving brain cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting epigenetic changes can be effective in treating various cancers, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huse, Jason — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Huse, Jason
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.