Understanding how specific mutations in a protein can lead to cancer
Official title: Dissecting neomorphic functions mediated by mutant-specific structures of SPOP
Funded at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital · NIH-11160102 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in a protein called SPOP can help us create better cancer treatments that target cancer cells while keeping healthy cells safe, and it could be especially helpful for people with prostate and endometrial cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | May 21, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $524,560 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA301513-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11160102 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with prostate, endometrial, or other solid tumors associated with SPOP mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without SPOP mutations or those with cancers not related to the ubiquitin-proteasome system may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mutations in the SPOP protein, which is involved in regulating protein levels in cells. By examining how these mutations change the structure and function of SPOP, the researchers aim to develop targeted therapies that specifically attack cancer cells without harming normal cells. The study utilizes advanced techniques to analyze the protein's structure and its interactions with other molecules, which could lead to the creation of safer and more effective cancer treatments. Patients with certain types of cancer, such as prostate and endometrial cancer, may benefit from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted cancer therapies that minimize side effects and improve treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing targeted therapies for other mutations in the ubiquitin-proteasome system, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
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St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mittag, Tanja — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Mittag, Tanja
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.