Understanding How DNA Changes Drive Lung Cancer
Epigenetically Engineered Mouse Model for Lung Cancer Therapy
This project aims to understand how specific changes in DNA, called epigenetics, contribute to the start and growth of lung cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11120867 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' DNA contains instructions, and how these instructions are read can change through a process called epigenetics. This project focuses on specific epigenetic changes, particularly those affecting a gene called p16, which are often found early in human lung cancers. We are developing advanced mouse models that accurately reflect these human epigenetic changes to better understand how they work alongside other genetic changes, like K-RAS mutations, to cause lung cancer. By studying these models, we hope to uncover the precise molecular steps that lead to tumor formation. This deeper understanding is essential for discovering new and more effective ways to treat lung cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with lung cancer, especially those with specific epigenetic changes or K-RAS mutations, could ultimately benefit from the insights gained from this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers do not involve the specific epigenetic or genetic pathways being studied may not directly benefit from this particular line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a clearer understanding of how lung cancer begins and progresses, which is crucial for developing innovative and more effective treatments.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon preliminary work that demonstrated the first mouse model where targeted epigenetic changes drove spontaneous tumor development, indicating a novel and promising approach.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shen, Lanlan — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Shen, Lanlan
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.