Restoring Functional ARF Tumor Suppression in Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma with Peptide Mimics
Abstract
Cancer biologists have long sought to use genetic alterations of tumor cells as novel therapeutic targets. Nearly every anti-cancer drug that has been brought to the clinic using this ideal has targeted oncogenes whose altered activity is thought to drive cancer formation and progression. However, these agents have not appreciably altered the 5-year survival rate of lung cancer. We now seek to switch this thinking. For current and future generations, the prevention or treatment of lung cancer represents a tangible goal in the eradication of this deadly disease. While this goal seems attainable on the surface, the complexity of lung cancer on both a genomic and physiologic level tends to set our sights on the very distant future in reaching this goal. However, recent advances in whole genome sequencing and molecular techniques has provided invaluable tools in the dissection of the lung cancer process. Moreover, the identification of key oncogene and tumor suppressor networks in lung cancer has opened strategic windows to improved patient care. We now propose a highly innovative notion that restoring the ARF tumor suppressor, the second-most mutated tumor suppressor in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), can be clinically impactful. We propose numerous innovative tools and experimental approaches aimed at opening up the tumor suppressor field to clinical lung cancer treatment avenues. The current proposal is highly relevant to the healthcare needs and welfare of military Service Members, Veterans, and their families. In line with the goals of the Lung Cancer Research Program, we aim to identify innovative strategies for the treatment of lung cancer and understand the molecular mechanisms of initiation and progression in lung cancer. This proposal directly addresses two Lung Cancer Research Program objectives. First, we will utilize an innovative strategy to treat lung cancer. Second, we seek to understand the molecular mechanisms of initiation and progression in lung cancer. These goals will be achieved through a logical and well-controlled single specific aim and are feasible in the 1-year timeline.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Dec 05, 2021
- Source ID
- W81XWH2110308
Entities
People
- Jason D Weber
Organizations
- United States Army
- Washington University in St. Louis