Understanding Tryptophan Metabolism in Fibroids
Tryptophan metabolism and its role in fibroid pathogenesis
This research explores how a specific metabolic process called tryptophan metabolism contributes to the development of uterine fibroids, especially in African American women.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Torrance, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11112421 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our team found that certain enzymes, TDO2 and IDO1, are much more active in fibroid tissues. We observed that the increase in TDO2 activity is particularly high in fibroids from African American women and in those with a specific genetic change called MED12 mutation. When we blocked TDO2 in lab-grown fibroid cells, we saw a decrease in their growth and in genes linked to fibroid development. This suggests that controlling tryptophan metabolism could be a new way to help manage fibroids.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for patients with uterine fibroids, particularly African American women, who may be interested in understanding the underlying causes of their condition.
Not a fit: Patients without uterine fibroids or those not interested in the biological mechanisms of fibroid development may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments for uterine fibroids by targeting specific metabolic pathways, potentially offering more effective options, especially for African American women.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of tryptophan metabolism in fibroids is a relatively new area, similar approaches targeting metabolic pathways have shown promise in other disease contexts.
Where this research is happening
Torrance, United States
- Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center — Torrance, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Khorram, Omid a. — Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Khorram, Omid a.
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.