Creating new rat models to study estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer
Next Generation Rat Models of ER+ Breast Cancer
This study is creating special rat models that closely mimic a common type of breast cancer to help researchers understand how the cancer grows and spreads, especially to bones, which could lead to better ways to prevent and treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11044083 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced rat models that mimic estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, which is a common type of breast cancer. The models are designed to be immunocompetent and capable of spontaneously metastasizing to critical organs like bones, which is essential for understanding the disease's progression. By using these models, researchers aim to gain insights into tumor development and the mechanisms behind bone metastasis, which could lead to better prevention strategies and treatments. The approach involves introducing genetic changes through viral injections to create tumors that respond to endocrine therapies, allowing for a more accurate study of the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, especially those who may be at risk for metastatic disease.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of breast cancer or those who do not have estrogen receptor-positive tumors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment options for patients with ER+ breast cancer, particularly those at risk of bone metastasis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in developing animal models for cancer studies, but this specific approach using rat models for ER+ breast cancer is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Yi — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Li, Yi
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.