Blocking Inflammation and Drug Resistance in Obesity-Related Breast Cancer
Targeting RAGE in tumor and TME to oppose inflammation and drug resistance in obesity associated ER+ breast cancer
This project explores how inflammation linked to obesity makes estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer more aggressive and resistant to treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgetown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11129830 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Obesity is known to increase the risk and mortality for postmenopausal estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, and we are working to understand why. Our research focuses on how the inflammatory state associated with obesity drives this type of breast cancer, particularly by making it resistant to current therapies and more likely to spread. We are looking at how higher levels of estrogen (estrone) in obesity, along with a protein called RAGE, work together to fuel cancer growth and metastasis. By understanding these inflammatory pathways in both tumor cells and the surrounding fat tissue, we aim to find new ways to make treatments more effective.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is most relevant to postmenopausal patients with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, particularly those who are also living with obesity.
Not a fit: Patients with breast cancer types not linked to estrogen receptors or obesity may not directly benefit from this specific line of investigation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that help overcome drug resistance and prevent the spread of breast cancer in patients with obesity.
How similar studies have performed: While some preliminary data support the role of RAGE in cancer, targeting RAGE specifically to overcome drug resistance in obesity-associated ER+ breast cancer is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- Georgetown University — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hudson, Barry Ian — Georgetown University
- Study coordinator: Hudson, Barry Ian
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.