Understanding NF-kappaB in Lung Health and Cancer Growth
Mechanistic difference of NF-kappaB in lung physiology and tumorigenesis
This project looks at how a protein called NF-kappaB works differently in healthy lung cells versus lung cancer cells to find new ways to fight cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11137649 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have a protein called NF-kappaB that is important for both normal health and fighting infections, but it also plays a big role in cancer growth and resistance to treatments. We haven't been able to target it effectively in the past because it's so vital for healthy functions. This work aims to uncover the specific ways NF-kappaB acts in cancer cells compared to healthy cells. We've found a new protein, PDLIM2, that seems to block the cancer-causing actions of NF-kappaB without affecting its healthy roles. We hope to understand how PDLIM2 works and how it can be used to specifically target cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients interested in the underlying causes of lung cancer and the development of future targeted therapies.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new, more effective treatments for lung cancer that specifically target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on recent, first-time discoveries by the researchers regarding different NF-kappaB activation patterns and the role of PDLIM2 in lung cancer models.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Qu, Zhaoxia — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Qu, Zhaoxia
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.