Understanding how p16 loss affects cancer metabolism in melanoma
Investigating p16 Loss in Pro-tumorigenic Metabolism
This study is looking at how the loss of a protein called p16 affects the way melanoma cells use nutrients, with the hope of finding new treatment options for patients who have low levels of this protein.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10811629 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the p16 protein, a cell cycle inhibitor, in the metabolism of melanoma cells that have lost p16 expression. By examining how this loss influences nucleotide metabolism, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating melanoma, particularly in patients with low p16 levels. The researchers will explore the ATR-mTORC1 signaling pathway and its impact on cancer cell growth, with the goal of developing new treatment strategies that could be used alone or in combination with existing therapies. This work is crucial for understanding the metabolic vulnerabilities of melanoma cells and could lead to more effective treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are melanoma patients who exhibit downregulation or deletion of the p16 protein.
Not a fit: Patients with melanoma who do not have p16 loss or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for melanoma patients, particularly those with p16 loss, improving their chances of recovery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective, although the specific focus on p16 loss in melanoma is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aird, Katherine Marie — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Aird, Katherine Marie
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.