Using CRISPR technology to target cancer DNA for destruction
Official title: Targeting the cancer neo-genome for destruction with CRISPR-Cas enzymes
Funded at Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-10912470 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to treat cancer by using a special tool called CRISPR to directly target and damage cancer cells' DNA, aiming to destroy them while keeping healthy cells safe, and it's designed for anyone interested in innovative cancer therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 5F32CA281185-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10912470 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with specific types of cancer that have identifiable genomic alterations suitable for CRISPR targeting.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that do not have identifiable genomic alterations or those who are not eligible for experimental therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to cancer treatment by using CRISPR-Cas9 technology to directly target and induce damage to the DNA of cancer cells. The project aims to identify specific genomic sites in cancer cells that can be targeted, potentially leading to cancer-cell specific destruction while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. By analyzing a large database of cancer genomes and cell lines, the researchers hope to develop effective strategies for using this technology in future therapies. This approach represents a shift from traditional treatments that often rely on damaging healthy cells alongside cancer cells.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and targeted cancer therapies that improve patient survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results using CRISPR technology for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leibowitz, Mitchell L — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Leibowitz, Mitchell L
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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.