NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how PRC2 dysfunction contributes to cancer

Official title: Dissecting the molecular mechanisms of PRC2 dysregulation in cancer

Funded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11097145 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a specific protein complex called PRC2 behaves in cancer cells to better understand how changes in gene activity can lead to cancer, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts Institute of Technology
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cambridge, United States)
Project startJune 1, 2023
Project endMay 31, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$100,563
NIH project number5K00CA253687-05
Project IDNIH-11097145 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with advanced cancers, particularly those with mutations in chromatin-related genes.

Less likely to help

Patients with early-stage cancers or those whose cancers are not associated with PRC2 dysregulation may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind the dysregulation of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) in cancer. By focusing on how PRC2's enzymatic activity is regulated, particularly through its EZH2 subunit, the project aims to uncover new insights into the role of epigenetic changes in cancer development. The research employs advanced biochemical techniques to analyze histone modifications and their impact on gene expression in cancer cells. Ultimately, this work seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for cancer prevention and treatment by targeting epigenetic mechanisms.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting epigenetic regulators for cancer therapy, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Cambridge, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Patriotis, Agata Ewa — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  • Study coordinator: Patriotis, Agata Ewa

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.