Exploring how heavy metal exposure may lead to triple negative breast cancer
Unraveling the molecular link between heavy metal exposure and triple negative breast cancer
['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE · NIH-10865838
This study is looking at how exposure to cadmium, a heavy metal, might play a role in causing triple negative breast cancer, especially in young Black women with certain genetic mutations, to help find out more about the risks and improve treatment options.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_CAREER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LOUISVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10865838 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between exposure to heavy metals, particularly cadmium, and the development of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), a type of breast cancer that currently lacks effective targeted therapies. The study focuses on understanding how cadmium affects DNA repair mechanisms in breast cells, especially in individuals with BRCA1 mutations. By examining the biological effects of cadmium exposure, the research aims to identify additional risk factors contributing to the higher incidence of TNBC in young Black women. The approach includes both epidemiological analysis and laboratory experiments to assess the impact of cadmium on breast cancer cell behavior.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include young Black women with a family history of breast cancer or those living near industrial sites known to be contaminated with heavy metals.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of breast cancer or are not exposed to heavy metals may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the causes of triple negative breast cancer and potentially inform prevention strategies for at-risk populations.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific link between cadmium exposure and TNBC is still being explored, previous studies have shown that heavy metal exposure can increase cancer risk, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
LOUISVILLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE — LOUISVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: NAIL, ALEXANDRA NICHOLE — UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE
- Study coordinator: NAIL, ALEXANDRA NICHOLE
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.