Understanding how nucleolin interacts with a specific DNA structure to regulate cancer genes

Nucleolin recognition of MYC promoter G-quadruplex and its role in MYC regulation by MycG4-ligands

['FUNDING_U01'] · PURDUE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10817725

This study is looking at how a protein called nucleolin interacts with a special DNA structure linked to the c-Myc gene, which plays a role in many cancers, to find new ways to help develop treatments that could improve cancer care for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorPURDUE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WEST LAFAYETTE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10817725 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the interaction between nucleolin, a protein, and a unique DNA structure known as G-quadruplex found in the promoter region of the c-Myc gene, which is crucial in many cancers. The study aims to understand how nucleolin binds to this DNA structure and how small molecules can influence this interaction to regulate c-Myc gene expression. By determining the molecular structure of the nucleolin-G-quadruplex complex, the research seeks to uncover potential new strategies for cancer treatment targeting this mechanism. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to the development of novel anti-cancer therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers where c-Myc plays a significant role in tumor growth and progression.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers not driven by c-Myc or those with non-malignant conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies for cancer by manipulating the regulation of the c-Myc gene.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting the nucleolin-MycG4 complex is novel, similar strategies targeting oncogene regulation have shown promise in other studies.

Where this research is happening

WEST LAFAYETTE, 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: Anti-Cancer Agents, Cancer Drug, Neoplastic Disease Chemotherapeutic Agents, anti-cancer drug

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.