Grant: Project Grant

Cancer arises because cells in our body acquire the potential of multiplying almost indefinitely. Contrary to healthy cells in the rest of the body, cancer cells become addicted to the cellular deregulations caused by the activation of oncogenes and/or by the inactivation of tumor suppressors. One of these deregulations, which occurs in almost all cancers, is the accumulation of a protein called c-Myc. One tumor suppressor that is inactivated in many cancers is called Max. Interestingly, Max is able to interact with c-Myc and help it to perform non-oncogenic functions. However, inactivating modification in Max contributes to the oncogenic potential of c-Myc. On the other hand, the introduction of normal Max or mimics in cancer cells can kill them. In this proposal, we will test if we can cure cancer in mice using Max and another molecule that can mimic its functions. More precisely, we propose to perform complex studies that will evaluate the drug-like properties and the mode of action of Max and one mimic. We have highly encouraging preliminary results that support their therapeutic potential. Upon completion of our research objectives, we will have completed most of the work necessary to warrant clinical studies in human. Considering that c-Myc plays a role in almost all types of cancers, our research could lead to the development of a revolutionary cancer therapy.