NIH-funded research R15 grant

Developing small molecules to block a protein linked to breast cancer spread

Official title: Small Molecule Inhibitors of the Inflammatory Cytokine Oncostatin M

Funded at Boise State University · NIH-10438068 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on developing new medications that can help stop the spread of breast cancer by blocking a specific protein called oncostatin M, which is linked to cancer growth, with the hope of improving treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoise State University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boise, United States)
Project startApril 18, 2022
Project endMarch 31, 2026
Funding year2022
Award (this year)$395,436
NIH project number1R15CA271157-01
Project IDNIH-10438068 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those at risk of metastasis due to high levels of OSM.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those without elevated OSM levels may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating small molecule inhibitors that target and block the inflammatory cytokine oncostatin M (OSM), which is associated with breast cancer metastasis. By inhibiting OSM signaling, the project aims to prevent the early stages of tumor spread, potentially improving outcomes for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. The approach involves synthesizing these inhibitors and testing their effectiveness through advanced biological assays. If successful, this could lead to new FDA-approved treatments that protect against the progression of breast cancer.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new therapeutic option that significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer metastasis.

How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting OSM is promising, it is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.

Where this research is happening

  • Boise State University
    Boise, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Warner, Don L — Boise State University
  • Study coordinator: Warner, Don L

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.