Project title: UCHL1 as a minimally invasive molecular indicator for gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
Tanya Stoyanova, PhD David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles
- Status: Active
- Year(s): 2024
- Grant Type: Pilot
- Research Type: Translational
- Primary Tumor Site: Multiple
- Area of Inquiry: Biomarkers
Description
What critical problem/question will researchers try to answer?
In collaboration with Dr. J. Randolph Hecht, I will lead a project to test a novel, minimally invasive blood biomarker and therapeutic target for gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). The primary goal is to evaluate the utility of a protein hydrolase as a minimally invasive molecular indicator for carcinoid tumors of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreatic NETs. Additionally, the project aims to test the therapeutic efficacy of protein hydrolase inhibitors in treating gastroenteropancreatic NETs.
Why is this important?
The successful completion of this project could lead to the discovery of innovative strategies for screening, early detection, and potential prognostication of gastroenteropancreatic NETs. It may also result in the development of new treatments for patients with these tumors. Plasma protein hydrolase could serve as a minimally invasive biomarker to aid in therapeutic decision-making and monitoring treatment responses in patients with gastroenteropancreatic NETs.
What will the researchers do?
The study aims to identify a novel blood biomarker and therapeutic strategy for gastroenteropancreatic NETs. For the first time, the project will analyze protein hydrolase levels in a large cohort of patient-matched tissue and blood samples. Researchers will also test the therapeutic efficacy of protein hydrolase inhibitors in preclinical models of gastroenteropancreatic NETs. This study represents the first comprehensive evaluation of protein hydrolase as both a molecular indicator in tissue and blood and as a therapeutic target for gastroenteropancreatic NETs.
How might this improve treatment of neuroendocrine cancer?
This research could guide the development of novel, minimally invasive biomarkers and innovative treatments for patients with gastroenteropancreatic NETs. The proposed inhibitors may ultimately be used in clinical settings for patients with NETs. By testing the therapeutic potential of protein hydrolase inhibitors in preclinical models, this study establishes a critical translational link between research findings and patient care. The project holds the potential to significantly enhance detection, prognosis, and therapeutic options, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life for patients suffering from gastroenteropancreatic NETs.
What is the next step?
The next step involves the development of a rapid, cost-effective, and minimally invasive test for the detection and prognostication of gastroenteropancreatic NETs. Additionally, the study will advance the testing of these novel therapeutic strategies for patients with gastroenteropancreatic NETs.
Additional Details
- City: Los Angeles
- State: California
- Country: United States
- Grant Duration: 1 year
- Sponsor: Katherine’s Light Foundation
DISCLAIMER
NETRF funds laboratory research to understand the development of neuroendocrine tumors and translational research to explore new concepts in treatment. Research grant descriptions and research updates from NETRF are not intended to serve as medical advice. It can take years for research discoveries to be fully validated and approved for patient care. Always consult your health care providers about your treatment options.