Creating a new imaging tool to improve breast cancer treatment decisions
Developing PARP-1 PET with companion tissue assay as a precision tool to guide PARPi therapy
This study is testing a new way to use PET scans to help doctors figure out which patients with aggressive breast cancer, especially those with BRCA1/2 mutations or triple-negative breast cancer, are likely to benefit from a specific treatment called PARP inhibitors, so they can get the best care possible without unnecessary side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11006322 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a noninvasive imaging technique that can predict how well patients with aggressive breast cancer will respond to PARP inhibitors, a type of targeted therapy. By using a PET scan combined with tissue assays, the study seeks to identify biomarkers that indicate sensitivity to treatment, allowing for better patient selection and real-time adjustments to therapy. This approach focuses particularly on patients with BRCA1/2 mutations and triple-negative breast cancer, where current treatment options are limited. If successful, this tool could significantly enhance treatment outcomes and reduce unnecessary side effects from ineffective therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with aggressive breast cancer, particularly those with BRCA1/2 mutations or triple-negative breast cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with non-aggressive breast cancer or those not eligible for PARP inhibitor therapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized treatment plans for breast cancer patients, minimizing unnecessary drug toxicity.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data in breast and ovarian cancer suggest that similar imaging approaches have shown promise, indicating potential success for this innovative method.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdonald, Elizabeth — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Mcdonald, Elizabeth
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.