B and T cell clusters that may catch early triple-negative breast cancer
Elucidate the role of B/T cell-enriched immune aggregates in immune surveillance against TNBC
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA · NIH-11239130
This research looks at how groups of B and T immune cells near early breast changes might spot and stop triple-negative breast cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11239130 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses a special mouse genetic model (MADM) that labels pre-cancerous breast cells so researchers can watch them over time. The team will examine organized immune aggregates rich in B and T cells that appear near these early mutant ducts to see what cell types and signals are present. They will study how these immune structures form and whether they help eliminate mutant cells or fail, allowing cancer to develop. Results will point toward ways to strengthen early immune protection against triple-negative breast cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with triple-negative breast cancer or those at high risk (for example, BRCA1 mutation carriers) would be the most relevant group for future clinical applications.
Not a fit: Patients with non–triple-negative breast cancers or unrelated conditions are less likely to see direct benefit from this specific work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets to boost the immune system's ability to prevent or slow triple-negative breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Related research on immune cell clusters and tertiary lymphoid structures in tumors suggests these immune arrangements can affect cancer outcomes, but their role during the earliest stages of triple-negative breast cancer is still largely untested.
Where this research is happening
CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA — CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZONG, HUI — UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
- Study coordinator: ZONG, HUI
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.