Using MAP4K4 inhibitors to prevent nerve damage from chemotherapy

MAP4K4 inhibition to prevent CIPN

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10987105

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 typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10987105 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are receiving chemotherapy and are at risk of developing peripheral neuropathy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing chemotherapy or those with pre-existing neuropathies unrelated to chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Baltimore, 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 Treatment
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.