Understanding how specific lung cells change into early lung cancer in smokers
Elucidating the evolution of Krt8+ alveolar cells to Kras-mutant lung preneoplasia and cancer
This work looks at the very first changes in lung cells that can lead to a common type of lung cancer in people who smoke.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11138749 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many lung cancers in smokers have a specific change called a KRAS mutation, and these cancers are now being found earlier. We want to understand the earliest steps that cause these cancers to form, which could help us stop them before they grow. Our team is focusing on a particular type of lung cell, called Krt8+ alveolar cells, to see how they evolve into pre-cancerous growths and then full-blown cancer. By identifying these initial changes, we hope to find new ways to prevent or treat lung cancer at its earliest stages.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is most relevant to individuals who smoke or have a history of smoking and are at risk for KRAS-mutant lung adenocarcinoma.
Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing treatment for advanced lung cancer may not directly benefit from this early-stage research, though it could inform future therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to detect, prevent, or treat KRAS-mutant lung cancer much earlier, potentially improving outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have identified some molecular and immune changes linked to early lung tumor development, but the specific cell populations triggering these changes are not yet fully understood.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kadara, Humam — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Kadara, Humam
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.