Understanding how MYC contributes to eyelid gland cancer development
Official title: Investigating the Role of MYC in Meibomian Gland Oncogenesis
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11078802 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gene called MYC might influence the growth of a rare type of eyelid cancer that starts in the oil glands, with the goal of finding better ways to diagnose and treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $126,576 |
| NIH project number | 5K01OD034451-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078802 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sebaceous carcinoma of the ocular adnexa, particularly those with aggressive disease features.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those with other types of eyelid tumors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the MYC gene in the development of sebaceous carcinomas that arise from the Meibomian glands in the eyelids. The study aims to understand how MYC overexpression, potentially triggered by disruptions in insulin signaling, affects the growth and survival of these cancer cells. By examining the genetic changes associated with these tumors, researchers hope to uncover new insights into their aggressive behavior and the mechanisms behind their spread. This could lead to improved strategies for diagnosis and treatment of this challenging cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients with eyelid gland cancers.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of MYC in other cancers has been studied, this specific investigation into its role in Meibomian gland oncogenesis is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peterson, Cornelia Ward Mary — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Peterson, Cornelia Ward Mary
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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.