Understanding Mitochondria in LKB1-Mutated Lung Cancer
Imaging mitochondrial heterogeneity in LKB1 mutant lung cancer
This research aims to learn more about how changes in a gene called LKB1 affect the energy factories of lung cancer cells, which could help us find better ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086102 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' cells have tiny powerhouses called mitochondria, and in lung cancer with LKB1 gene changes, these powerhouses don't work normally. We are looking closely at the structure and function of these altered mitochondria in lung cancer to understand why they behave differently. Using special imaging techniques, including a PET scan tracer, we can see how these mitochondria are working inside tumors. We also use advanced microscopy to create detailed 3D maps of these cellular powerhouses, hoping to uncover new weaknesses in the cancer cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research focuses on understanding lung adenocarcinomas with LKB1 gene mutations, and future clinical applications would target patients with this specific type of lung cancer.
Not a fit: Patients whose lung cancer does not have LKB1 mutations or those with other cancer types may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to identify LKB1-mutated lung cancers and develop more effective treatments by targeting their unique energy needs.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of 18FBnTP as an in vivo biomarker for mitochondrial bioenergetics in this specific context is being explored, the general approach of studying mitochondrial metabolism in cancer is a well-established area of research.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shackelford, David B — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Shackelford, David B
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.