Understanding how MYC interacts with RNA to influence gene expression and cancer growth

Enhancer RNAs Boost MYC-Chromatin Interaction to Regulate Gene Expression and Tumorigenesis

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10914872

This study is looking at how a protein called MYC interacts with certain RNA molecules in breast cancer, to better understand how these interactions might help cancer grow, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10914872 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of MYC, a key protein involved in regulating gene expression, in its interactions with enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) and how these interactions may contribute to breast cancer development. The study aims to determine if MYC acts as an RNA-binding protein and to explore the mechanisms by which eRNAs influence MYC's ability to regulate genes. By conducting experiments to analyze the oncogenic potential of specific eRNAs and mapping the MYC-eRNA regulatory network, the research seeks to uncover new insights into cancer biology that could lead to innovative therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those without breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for breast cancer by targeting the MYC-eRNA interactions.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting MYC-eRNA interactions is novel, previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of MYC in cancer, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.
Conditions Breast Cancer
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.