Understanding how MYC proteins contribute to cancer development
Imaging and manipulating oncoprotein phase separation and compartmentalization
This study is looking at how a protein called MYC helps tumors grow in childhood cancers, and it aims to understand how we might be able to use this knowledge to develop better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11064894 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of MYC oncoproteins, which are known to drive tumor growth in various cancers, including childhood cancers. The study focuses on how elevated levels of MYC lead to tumor formation through a process called phase separation, where proteins form distinct compartments within cells. By examining the behavior of MYC proteins in cancer cells, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind their transforming activity and how this can be manipulated for therapeutic purposes. This work involves advanced imaging techniques to visualize these processes in real-time within living cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with cancers associated with MYC overexpression, such as neuroblastoma or other MYC-related tumors.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers not driven by MYC or those with early-stage disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for targeting MYC-driven cancers, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of protein phase separation in cancer, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shu, Xiaokun — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Shu, Xiaokun
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 below.