WNT4 and gynecologic cancer: a genetic link to therapy resistance and disparities
Official title: Elucidating a novel WNT4 regulatory axis as a driver of gynecologic cancer health disparities
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11415206 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how a gene variant called WNT4 may influence gynecologic cancers and contribute to differences in risk among populations, with the aim of improving future treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $581,692 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA285446-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11415206 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with gynecologic cancers, especially ovarian cancer, and those carrying WNT4-related genetic variants may be eligible for future studies or clinical trials.
✕Less likely to help
People without the WNT4 risk variant or without gynecologic cancer may not directly benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This project examines how the WNT4 gene affects gynecologic cancers like ovarian cancer, focusing on how certain genetic variants may drive tumor growth, metabolism, and resistance to chemotherapy. It uses laboratory findings and animal models to explore how WNT4 signaling changes cancer cells and how these changes relate to treatment response. The team will look at patient-derived tumor data to understand how genetic risk translates into disease behavior across different populations. Results could guide development of targeted therapies that overcome chemotherapy resistance and address disparities in outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to new strategies to overcome chemotherapy resistance and tailor treatments for women at higher genetic risk, potentially reducing mortality from ovarian and related gynecologic cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work has linked WNT4 variants to increased gynecologic cancer risk and chemotherapy resistance, but mechanisms are not fully understood, making this an innovative step.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sikora, Matthew J — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Sikora, Matthew J
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Standardized, patient-centered treatment plans for breast and gynecologic cancer survivors facing sexual dysfunction and vaginal microbiome changes
A patient-friendly program tests personalized, non-hormonal treatment plans for sexual dysfunction in breast cancer survivors, guided by changes in the vaginal microbiome.
-
Gynecologic cancer care: faster enrollment in targeted trials through molecular matching and better access to care
Aims to speed up enrollment in personalized gynecologic cancer trials by matching patients to targeted therapies and improving access to care.
-
Virtual Mindful After Cancer program to improve sexual health for breast and gynecologic cancer survivors
A web-based mindfulness program is being tested to help breast and gynecologic cancer survivors who have sexual health concerns.
-
Promoting open talks about sexual health after gynecologic cancer
A patient-focused program helps women with gynecologic cancer start and guide conversations about sexual health with their doctors.
-
Modernizing Gynecologic Cancer Trial Rules to Enroll More Patients
Aims to make gynecologic cancer clinical trials more accessible to diverse patients so more people can benefit from new treatments.
-
Virtual mindfulness program to improve sexual health after breast or gynecologic cancer
An online mindfulness program to help breast and gynecologic cancer survivors manage sexual pain, low desire, body image, and intimacy problems.
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.