Using prime editing to build precise mouse models of human cancer
In vivo prime editing for precision cancer mouse models
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER · NIH-11141151
Researchers are creating a precise gene-editing method to make mouse tumors that mirror human cancer mutations so future treatments and tests can be improved for people with cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WORCESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11141151 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses a gene-editing tool called prime editing to introduce specific human cancer mutations directly into adult mouse tissues, avoiding the need to breed special mouse strains. The team is optimizing prime editors and a dual-prime editing approach to install point mutations, insertions/deletions, and larger deletions in mouse organs such as the liver. These engineered mouse tumors will help scientists study how particular mutations drive tumor growth and resistance to therapies. The work is performed in laboratory and animal models and is intended to speed up preclinical testing of treatments and biomarkers that could later help patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients whose tumors carry known genetic mutations may benefit indirectly from insights and future trials enabled by these more precise mouse models.
Not a fit: People without cancers driven by identifiable genetic changes or those seeking immediate treatment options are unlikely to see direct benefit from this preclinical mouse-model research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could speed development of targeted cancer treatments and better biomarkers by giving researchers faster, more accurate mouse models that reflect patients' tumor mutations.
How similar studies have performed: Other CRISPR-based methods and early prime-editing experiments have successfully made precise mutations in cells and mice, but applying these tools to build broadly useful cancer models is still relatively new.
Where this research is happening
WORCESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER — WORCESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: XUE, WEN — UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER
- Study coordinator: XUE, WEN
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.