Understanding how rectal cancer evolves during treatment and finding new ways to target it
Harnessing treatment-induced tumor evolution and collateral sensitivities using a human rectal cancer co-clinical platform
['FUNDING_CAREER'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10928741
This study is looking at how locally advanced rectal cancer reacts to chemotherapy and radiation before surgery, to help find better treatment options for patients who might not respond well to the usual therapies, possibly sparing some from unnecessary surgeries.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_CAREER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10928741 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how locally advanced rectal cancer changes in response to chemotherapy and radiation therapy before surgery. It aims to understand the different cell populations within tumors and how they evolve, which can lead to varying responses to treatment. By exploring the concept of 'collateral sensitivities,' the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies that could improve outcomes for patients who may not respond well to standard treatments. The goal is to potentially avoid unnecessary surgeries for some patients by finding effective alternatives.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with locally advanced rectal cancer who are undergoing chemoradiation therapy.
Not a fit: Patients with rectal cancer that is not locally advanced or those who have already undergone surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for rectal cancer patients, potentially allowing some to avoid surgery altogether.
How similar studies have performed: There is emerging evidence from other cancers that treatment-induced evolutionary traps can be leveraged for therapeutic benefit, suggesting this approach may hold promise for rectal cancer as well.
Where this research is happening
DURHAM, UNITED STATES
- DUKE UNIVERSITY — DURHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: EYLER, CHRISTINE ELISSA — DUKE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: EYLER, CHRISTINE ELISSA
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.