Finding a new treatment target for breast cancer in African American women

Identifying a New Biological Target for Breast Cancer Therapy That Contributes to Disparities for African-American Women

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10873727

This study is looking at why African American women are more affected by a specific type of breast cancer called triple negative breast cancer, and it aims to create new treatments that target a special protein found in their cancer cells to help fight the disease with fewer side effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10873727 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological factors contributing to breast cancer disparities in African American women, particularly focusing on triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). The team has identified a receptor called lipolysis-stimulated lipoprotein receptor (LSR) that is highly expressed in breast cancer cells from African American patients. They are developing targeted therapies using antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) that specifically target LSR to inhibit tumor growth with minimal side effects. The study will analyze genetic and epigenetic differences in breast cancer tissues from African American and Caucasian American patients to better understand these disparities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American women diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have breast cancer or those with non-triple negative breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and targeted treatments for breast cancer in African American women, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Similar research has shown promise in targeting specific biological factors in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.