Understanding how reduced breakdown of certain amino acids affects kidney cancer
Investigating the Role of Reduced Branched-Chain Amino Acid Catabolism in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
This study is looking at how certain amino acids might affect kidney cancer growth, especially in people who are overweight, to find new ways to help treat this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10880388 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), a common and aggressive form of kidney cancer. The study focuses on how the metabolism of these amino acids may contribute to tumor growth, particularly in patients who are obese. By analyzing the enzymes involved in BCAA catabolism, the research aims to uncover potential new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes for ccRCC patients. The approach includes both laboratory experiments and analysis of patient samples to understand the metabolic changes associated with the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with clear cell renal cell carcinoma, particularly those who are also dealing with obesity.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of kidney cancer or those without metabolic dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target metabolic pathways in kidney cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of BCAAs in other cancers has been studied, this specific investigation into ccRCC is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coffey, Nathan Jackson — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Coffey, Nathan Jackson
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.