Using MAP4K4 inhibitors to prevent nerve damage from chemotherapy
Official title: MAP4K4 inhibition to prevent CIPN
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10987105 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special treatment can help protect nerve cells from damage caused by chemotherapy, which can lead to painful side effects for cancer patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | June 21, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $450,313 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS135481-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10987105 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are receiving chemotherapy and are at risk of developing peripheral neuropathy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing chemotherapy or those with pre-existing neuropathies unrelated to chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how inhibiting a specific protein, MAP4K4, can protect nerve cells from damage caused by chemotherapy drugs. Chemotherapy often leads to painful nerve damage, known as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), which can severely affect patients' quality of life. The study will explore the effectiveness of a MAP4K4 inhibitor, PF-06260933, in preventing this nerve damage in laboratory settings. By understanding the mechanisms behind nerve degeneration, the research aims to develop potential therapies to mitigate these side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce nerve damage in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using similar approaches to mitigate chemotherapy-induced nerve damage, but this specific application of MAP4K4 inhibition is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hoke, Ahmet — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Hoke, Ahmet
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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.