Understanding why small cell lung cancer resists chemotherapy

Identifying and understanding drivers of chemoresistance in small cell lung cancer

NIH-funded research Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-10880359

This study is looking at how certain genes make small cell lung cancer harder to treat with chemotherapy, so that we can find better ways to help patients who are facing this tough condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10880359 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to chemoresistance in small cell lung cancer (SCLC), a type of lung cancer that often relapses after initial chemotherapy treatment. By using patient-derived xenograft models, the researchers will genetically alter these models to identify specific genes that promote resistance to common chemotherapy drugs like cisplatin and etoposide. The study employs advanced techniques such as CRISPR to systematically screen for these resistance drivers, aiming to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to treatment failure. This could ultimately help in developing more effective therapies for patients with SCLC.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with small cell lung cancer who are undergoing or have undergone chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of lung cancer or those who have not received chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that overcome chemoresistance in small cell lung cancer, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in identifying genetic factors related to chemoresistance in various cancers, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancer PatientCancer cell line
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.