PILOT and COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH PROJECTS PROGRAM, 2025, “Targeting metabolic pathways for hepatocellular carcinoma therapy”

Research Areas

  • Cancer biology and tumor progression
  • Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
  • Cancer health disparities
  • Molecular and cellular oncology

Scientific Achievements

  • Investigated novel anti-cancer mechanisms by determining the pathway-driven activity of bioactive molecules and assessing factors associated with their therapeutic potential
  • Studied metabolic reprogramming in cancer, linking altered metabolism to tumor progression and potential therapeutic opportunities
  • Advanced MUC13-focused research by evaluating its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target in pancreatic and liver cancers
  • Evaluated nanotherapy approaches in cancer by assessing nanocarrier-based strategies aimed at enhancing anti-tumor activity

Funding

RCMI Funding

  • U54MD019970, NIH/NIMHD: Pilot Project Principal Investigator, “Targeting Metabolic Pathways for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Therapy”

Scientific Advance

Targeting metabolic pathways for hepatocellular carcinoma therapy
Liver cancer is one of the most common and serious liver diseases, and it affects many people in South Texas. People living in this region often face challenges such as limited access to healthcare, lower income, hepatitis infections, and other social and economic factors that can increase their risk of liver disease and liver cancer. This project will study whether metabolic modulator (Steviol), a natural compound derived from the stevia plant, can help slow or prevent liver cancer from developing. Early research suggests that steviol may reduce the ability of cancer cells to grow and use energy, making it harder for tumors to survive. Because steviol is a naturally derived and safe compound, this research could lead to new and affordable ways to prevent or reduce liver cancer in high-risk communities.
NIH/NIMHD #U54MD019970
Toggle Navigation