Understanding how melanin affects the progression of NRAS mutant melanoma

Novel role of melanin-carbonyls in progression of NRAS mutant melanoma

['FUNDING_R21'] · H. LEE MOFFITT CANCER CTR & RES INST · NIH-10648486

This study is looking at how certain compounds related to melanin might affect the growth of melanoma in patients with a specific gene mutation, and it hopes to find out why some people with melanoma don’t respond well to treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorH. LEE MOFFITT CANCER CTR & RES INST (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TAMPA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10648486 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of melanin-carbonyls in the progression of NRAS mutant melanoma, focusing on how these compounds can influence DNA damage and resistance to therapies. The study aims to explore the chemical processes involved when melanin is oxidized by nitric oxide synthase, leading to the formation of melanin-carbonyls that may contribute to melanoma development. By examining the interactions between these compounds and DNA, the research seeks to uncover new mechanisms that could explain why some melanoma patients do not respond to current treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with NRAS mutant melanoma who may be experiencing resistance to existing treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with melanoma that does not have NRAS mutations or those who are not currently undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating NRAS mutant melanoma, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of investigating melanin-carbonyls in melanoma is novel, related research has shown that understanding the biochemical pathways in cancer can lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

TAMPA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Skin Cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.