NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how gene regulation changes in cancer

Official title: Investigating epigenetic mechanisms of cancer

Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10977803 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how changes in our genes can help cancer cells resist treatment and avoid the immune system, with the goal of finding new ways to make cancer therapies more effective for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endAugust 31, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$162,115
NIH project number1R50CA293837-01
Project IDNIH-10977803 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients, particularly those with acute lymphoblastic leukemia or uveal melanoma, who may benefit from targeted therapies.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancers do not involve the specific epigenetic mechanisms being studied may not receive benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the changes in epigenetic mechanisms that affect gene expression in cancer, focusing on how these changes contribute to therapy resistance and immune evasion. The team, led by Dr. Richard Bennett at the University of Florida, employs advanced techniques such as CRISPR editing to explore the role of specific mutations in histones and their impact on cancer cell behavior. By examining these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes for cancer patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for overcoming drug resistance in cancer treatments.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting epigenetic changes in cancer, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Florida
    Gainesville, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Bennett, Richard L — University of Florida
  • Study coordinator: Bennett, Richard L

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About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.