# Mechanisms and Targeted Therapy of NRF2-high Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

> **NIH NIH R01** · NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY · 2022 · $83,443

## Abstract

This multiple-PI R01 proposal is designed to incorporate genetic and pharmacological approaches to
understand the mechanisms of NRF2 hyperactivation in ESCC and to develop targeted therapy for Nrf2high
ESCC. We believe Nrf2 and kinases are functionally interrelated, and thus cooperatively contribute to ESCC.
In this proposal, we aim to characterize the molecular and phenotypic consequences of NRF2 hyperactivation
in ESCC, determine the mechanisms of action and efficacy of NRF2 small molecule inhibitors in ESCC, and
identify NRF2-responsive kinases and their functions in NRF2-driven ESCC biology. Through three
independent yet tightly related Specific Aims, we will provide novel insights into pathway regulation and novel
therapeutic targets/agents for NRF2high ESCC. If proven effective, some compounds may be further translated
into the clinic for targeted therapy of NRF2high ESCC in the future.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10530998
- **Project number:** 3R01CA244236-03S1
- **Recipient organization:** NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** XIAOXIN Luke CHEN
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $83,443
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2020-06-01 → 2022-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10530998

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10530998, Mechanisms and Targeted Therapy of NRF2-high Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (3R01CA244236-03S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10530998. Licensed CC0.

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