Exploring the link between energy production in cells and fatigue in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy
Official title: Unraveling the Associations of Molecular-Genetic Bioenergetics and Chemotherapy-Induced Fatigue Symptoms in Patients with Breast Cancer
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10684326 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in energy production in your cells might be causing fatigue for breast cancer patients like you who are undergoing chemotherapy with anthracycline drugs, and it aims to find ways to help manage that tiredness better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $201,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NR020226-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10684326 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer patients currently receiving chemotherapy, particularly those treated with anthracycline-based regimens.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing chemotherapy or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in cellular energy production may contribute to fatigue experienced by breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, particularly those treated with anthracycline drugs. By examining the molecular and genetic pathways involved in mitochondrial function, the study aims to identify the biochemical mechanisms behind chemotherapy-induced fatigue. Patients will have their blood samples analyzed to assess energy production levels and how these relate to their fatigue symptoms. The goal is to better understand the relationship between energy metabolism and fatigue, potentially leading to improved management strategies for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that alleviate fatigue in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and cancer-related fatigue, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hsiao, Chao-Pin — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Hsiao, Chao-Pin
Related research
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Understanding how chemotherapy affects breast cancer spread and liver immunity
A research project looks at how standard breast cancer chemotherapy may change the immune system and cancer spread, especially to the liver, in people with aggressive breast cancer.
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Using fat-and-sugar chemistry to boost breast cancer response to chemo
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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.