Understanding PIK3CA Gene Changes in Colorectal Cancer
Mechanisms of PIK3CA helical domain mutations driving colorectal tumorigenesis
['FUNDING_R01'] · CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11142628
This project aims to find new, targeted treatments for colorectal cancer patients whose tumors have specific changes in the PIK3CA gene.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11142628 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are learning how certain changes in the PIK3CA gene, specifically in a part called the helical domain, cause colorectal cancer to grow. Our work shows that these changes activate cancer growth through unique pathways involving proteins like IRS1 and p85β. We've also found that p85β moves into the cell's nucleus, where it helps stabilize other proteins, EZH1 and EZH2, which contribute to cancer development. By understanding these steps, we hope to create more effective treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with colorectal cancer whose tumors have specific PIK3CA helical domain mutations would be the ideal candidates for therapies developed from this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose colorectal cancer does not have these specific PIK3CA helical domain mutations may not benefit from treatments directly targeting these pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new, targeted drug combinations that specifically shrink tumors in colorectal cancer patients with these particular PIK3CA gene changes.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary laboratory studies have shown that a combination of drugs targeting EZH enzymes and p110α can cause tumor regression in models of colorectal cancer with these mutations.
Where this research is happening
CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES
- CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY — CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WANG, ZHENGHE — CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WANG, ZHENGHE
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.
Conditions: Breast Cancer Patient, Cancer Cause, Cancer Etiology, Cancer Genes, Cancer-Promoting Gene