Using Atovaquone to Prevent Ovarian Cancer
Repurposing Atovaquone for Preventing Ovarian Cancer: An Example of Successful Inhibition of Oxidative Phosphorylation
This study is looking at whether a malaria drug called atovaquone can help prevent ovarian cancer in women at high risk, especially those with BRCA gene mutations, by stopping cancer cells from growing, and it offers a non-surgical option for those wanting to lower their cancer risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10824296 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of atovaquone, a drug currently used to treat malaria, to prevent ovarian cancer in patients at high risk, particularly those with BRCA gene mutations. The study aims to understand how atovaquone can inhibit oxidative phosphorylation, which may lead to increased oxidative stress and activate cell death pathways to stop the progression of cancer. By using a genetically engineered mouse model that mimics human ovarian cancer development, researchers will assess the effectiveness of atovaquone in delaying cancer onset. This approach offers a non-surgical alternative for patients who wish to reduce their cancer risk without the complications of surgical menopause.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women with BRCA gene mutations or other high-risk factors for ovarian cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have genetic predispositions to ovarian cancer or those who have already been diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new preventive treatment option for women at high risk of developing ovarian cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of atovaquone for this specific purpose is novel, there is preliminary evidence suggesting that similar approaches targeting oxidative phosphorylation have shown promise in cancer prevention.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barroilhet, Lisa M — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Barroilhet, Lisa M
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.