March Update: Smash Childhood Cancer


The researchers continue lab testing on drug candidates that may be effective against proteins and other molecules that play key roles in certain childhood cancers.



Background

The Smash Childhood Cancer research team has identified proteins and other molecules that play key roles in certain childhood cancers. The challenge is now to find chemical drug candidates that specifically target these key molecules and therefore control the cancer cells.

Data analysis

The research team continues to analyze data from the previous batches of work run on World Community Grid.

Below are the key proteins that have been examined so far and for which we have new updates. Each protein listed is involved in the development of at least one type of childhood cancer.


Beta catenin    
The research team has decided to move forward with further testing on three compounds that show promise against the beta catenin protein.*

Osteopontin
Testing continues on several compounds that may be effective at targeting this protein.*

PAX3:FOX01  
The researchers are conducting lab testing on a compound that may be effective at targeting this protein.*


*Lab testing compounds for effectiveness generally requires several phases, and each phase can take at least several months.

Current status of work units

Project paused

 

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