Targeting Myc Oncoproteins in Small Cell Lung Cancer with Mistletoe Lectin
Abstract
We study a form of lung cancer called small cell lung cancer (SCLC), a particularly aggressive and deadly form for which treatment options are limited. Our initial experiments have shown promising results treating SCLC cancer cells grown in the laboratory with an extract from the mistletoe plant. In particular, we have evidence that a subgroup of SCLC that has high levels of a family of cancer-promoting proteins called the myc proteins may be particularly sensitive to this mistletoe extract, called mistletoe lectin (ML). In this project, we propose to study in detail the effect of ML on different SCLC cells, as well as on tumors established from these cells and implanted in mice. In addition, we will study how treatment with ML affects the levels of myc proteins. We address two of the Lung Cancer Research Program’s Areas of Emphasis: 1. Identify innovative strategies for prevention and treatment of lung cancer. 2. Understand predictive markers to identify responders and nonresponders. The ultimate goal of this research is identifying a new therapeutic approach for patients with SCLC. The methods applied will also enhance our understanding of the disease biology and the viability of targeting myc proteins in SCLC using mistletoe-based therapy or other approaches. If our results are positive, further testing in additional preclinical cancer models will be needed before moving to clinical trials in SCLC patients. However, since mistletoe extracts have already undergone clinical trials in Europe for other cancer types, this can expedite safety assurance in humans. Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer deaths and the second most common cancer in Department of Veterans Affairs patients. While available treatment options have improved for other lung cancer types, SCLC treatment has remained largely unchanged over the last few decades, and the disease continues to carry a poor prognosis. Our proposal introduces a novel therapy aimed at improving the survival of Veterans and others with SCLC and enhancing the quality of life for these patients and their families.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Nov 19, 2019
- Source ID
- W81XWH1910646
Entities
People
- Mohammad A. Shatat
Organizations
- Case Western Reserve University
- United States Army