Understanding How p53 Gene Variations Affect Cancer Risk
Functional Analysis of p53 Polymorphic Variants
This project explores how changes in a gene called p53, especially a specific variant found in people of African descent, influence cancer risk and how well treatments work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wistar Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10986128 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our scientists are looking closely at how natural variations in the p53 gene, which normally helps prevent cancer, can change a person's risk for developing the disease. We are particularly interested in a specific p53 variant, called S47, which is more common in individuals of African descent and has been linked to a higher cancer risk. This work aims to uncover the precise ways these gene changes impact p53's protective functions and how they might affect the effectiveness of cancer treatments. By studying these variations, we hope to identify new ways to prevent cancer and develop more effective therapies tailored to individuals who carry these specific gene changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is particularly relevant for individuals of African descent who may carry specific variations in their p53 gene, such as the S47 variant, which is associated with increased cancer risk.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancer is not linked to p53 gene variations, or who do not carry the specific variants being studied, may not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to identify individuals at higher cancer risk and develop more effective, personalized treatments, particularly for those of African descent with specific p53 gene variations.
How similar studies have performed: This is a long-standing research program, suggesting prior success in understanding p53 variants and their role in cancer.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Wistar Institute — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Murphy, Maureen E. — Wistar Institute
- Study coordinator: Murphy, Maureen E.
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.