Understanding how oxygen affects kidney cancer metabolism
Official title: Deciphering the dichotomy of oxygen metabolism in renal cancer using a novel genetically encoded oxygen biosensor
Funded at Scintillon Institute for Photobiology · NIH-11036270 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how oxygen levels affect kidney cancer cells by creating a special sensor that can measure oxygen in living cells, which could help develop better treatments for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scintillon Institute for Photobiology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $96,300 |
| NIH project number | 5R03CA286706-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11036270 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with renal cancer who are interested in innovative treatment approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous kidney conditions or those not diagnosed with renal cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of oxygen in renal cancer by developing a novel biosensor that can measure oxygen levels in living cells. The approach involves engineering a protein-based sensor that combines a heme-based protein with a fluorescent protein to monitor oxygen gradients. By understanding how different oxygen levels influence cancer cell behavior, the research aims to uncover new insights into kidney cancer metabolism and its treatment. Patients may benefit from advancements in targeted therapies based on these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for kidney cancer by targeting oxygen metabolism.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using a genetically encoded oxygen biosensor is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding metabolic processes in cancer.
Where this research is happening
-
Scintillon Institute for Photobiology
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cracan, Valentin — Scintillon Institute for Photobiology
- Study coordinator: Cracan, Valentin
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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.