Understanding ITCH in Melanoma
Characterizing oncogenic function of ITCH in melanoma
This research explores how a molecule called ITCH helps melanoma grow and affects the body's immune response, hoping to find new ways to fight this skin cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11190822 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have a molecule called ITCH that plays a role in immune cells, but its exact role in cancer, especially melanoma, is not fully clear. This project aims to understand how ITCH helps melanoma cells grow, particularly in a type of melanoma where a gene called BRAF is normal. We also want to see how ITCH might make the area around the tumor less effective at fighting cancer. By understanding these processes, we hope to discover new targets for treating melanoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for future patients with melanoma, particularly those with BRAF wild-type tumors, who might benefit from new targeted therapies.
Not a fit: Patients whose melanoma does not involve the ITCH molecule or BRAF wild-type characteristics may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatment strategies for melanoma, especially for patients with BRAF wild-type tumors, by targeting the ITCH molecule.
How similar studies have performed: While ITCH's role in immune cells is known, its specific oncogenic function in melanoma and its impact on the tumor immune environment are newly emerging areas of investigation with promising preliminary results.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wan, Lixin — H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst
- Study coordinator: Wan, Lixin
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.