Understanding the role of MYC in a rare type of ovarian cancer
Official title: Exposing the role of MYC in small cell carcinoma of the ovary hypercalcemic type
Funded at Middle Tennessee State University · NIH-10881781 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a rare and aggressive type of ovarian cancer called SCCOHT, mainly affecting young women, to understand how certain genetic changes, especially in the SMARCA4 gene, might influence tumor growth and help develop better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Middle Tennessee State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Murfreesboro, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $65,650 |
| NIH project number | 5R03CA273609-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10881781 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are young women diagnosed with small cell carcinoma of the ovary hypercalcemic type.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of ovarian cancer or those without the specific genetic mutations associated with SCCOHT may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates small cell carcinoma of the ovary hypercalcemic type (SCCOHT), a rare and aggressive form of ovarian cancer primarily affecting young women. The study focuses on the genetic mutations associated with this cancer, particularly those in the SMARCA4 gene, which plays a crucial role in chromatin remodeling. By examining how these mutations affect gene expression and the interaction with the MYC oncogene, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that drive tumor growth and progression. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to targeted therapies or improved treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients with SCCOHT by targeting the underlying genetic mechanisms of the disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on MYC in SCCOHT is relatively novel, similar research on SWI/SNF mutations in other cancers has shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weissmiller, April M. — Middle Tennessee State University
- Study coordinator: Weissmiller, April M.
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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.