Understanding how Mcl-1 helps tumors resist chemotherapy

Mechanisms of nuclear Mcl-1 mediated chemoresistance

NIH-funded research Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-10983748

This study is looking at how a protein called Mcl-1 helps colorectal cancer cells survive chemotherapy, and it's for people with this type of cancer who want to learn more about why some treatments don't work as well as they should, with the hope of finding better ways to fight the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10983748 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Mcl-1, a protein that helps tumors survive chemotherapy, particularly in colorectal cancer. The team is exploring how Mcl-1 moves to the nucleus of cancer cells and interacts with other proteins to suppress genes that would normally help the cancer cells die in response to treatment. By studying patient-derived models, the researchers aim to uncover new mechanisms of chemoresistance that could lead to more effective therapies. The approach combines molecular biology techniques with analysis of tumor samples to understand the underlying processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer who are undergoing or have undergone chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers other than colorectal cancer or those who are not receiving chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for overcoming chemotherapy resistance in colorectal cancer, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting the Bcl-2 family of proteins can be effective in treating certain cancers, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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.