Understanding how to reactivate mutated p53 in cancer cells

Mechanisms of mutant p53 reactivation

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-10885197

This study is looking at ways to create new drugs that can help fix a common problem in many cancers, where a protein called p53 is mutated and can't do its job of stopping tumors from growing, so it could lead to better treatment options for patients with these types of cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-10885197 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the tumor suppressor protein p53, which is commonly mutated in various cancers. The project aims to develop drugs that can reactivate these mutated forms of p53, restoring their ability to suppress tumor growth. By investigating the mechanisms behind p53 mutations and their effects on cancer cells, the researchers hope to create effective therapies that target these mutations. Patients with cancers expressing mutated p53 may benefit from new treatment options that emerge from this work.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients whose tumors express mutated forms of the p53 protein.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve p53 mutations may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively treat cancers associated with mutated p53, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been challenges in developing p53 reactivator drugs, the potential for breakthroughs in this area remains, as similar approaches have shown promise in preliminary studies.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.