Understanding how lack of arginine affects small cell lung cancer

Mechanisms of Arginine Deprivation in Small Cell Lung Cancer

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10866365

This study is looking at how a lack of arginine, an important nutrient, affects different types of small cell lung cancer, especially the MYC-driven subtype, to find better treatment options for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10866365 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of arginine deprivation in small cell lung cancer (SCLC), a highly aggressive type of lung cancer. The team is exploring how different subtypes of SCLC respond to treatments that deplete arginine, particularly focusing on the MYC-driven subtype, which shows a unique dependency on this amino acid. By using human cell lines, genetically-engineered mouse models, and patient-derived xenografts, the researchers aim to identify new therapeutic targets and improve treatment strategies for patients with SCLC. The study seeks to understand the metabolic differences between SCLC subtypes to develop more effective treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with small cell lung cancer, particularly those with the MYC-driven subtype.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of lung cancer or those whose SCLC does not exhibit MYC-driven characteristics may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies for patients with small cell lung cancer, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective for small cell lung cancer as well.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.