Understanding how modifications to a specific protein can control cancer cell growth
Official title: CONTROL OF RB TUMOR SUPPRESSOR FUNCTIONS THROUGH POST-TRANSLATIONAL MODIFICATIONS
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10823676 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes to a protein called Retinoblastoma (Rb) can affect how cells grow and divide, which could help us find better treatments for cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $73,828 |
| NIH project number | 1F32GM153018-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10823676 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cancers where the Retinoblastoma protein plays a critical role in tumor progression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers unrelated to the Retinoblastoma protein or those with non-cancerous conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of post-translational modifications, particularly phosphorylation, on the Retinoblastoma protein (Rb) and its influence on cell cycle regulation. By examining the C-terminal intrinsically disordered region of Rb, the study aims to uncover how these modifications affect the protein's structure and function. The approach combines computational simulations and experimental techniques to provide insights into the molecular mechanisms that could lead to new cancer therapies. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of how cancer cells grow and divide, potentially leading to targeted treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating cancers by targeting the mechanisms that control cell growth.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding post-translational modifications in proteins can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, indicating a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Usher, Emery Thomas — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Usher, Emery Thomas
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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.