Genes that shape the tumor neighborhood and immune response in breast cancer
Spatial functional genomics to identify regulators of the tumor microenvironment and cancer immunity
This project looks for genes in breast tumors that change the tumor's neighborhood so the immune system can't attack, aiming to find new ways to help treatments work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11176237 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We will use a new mapping method called Perturb-map that lets researchers alter single or multiple genes in tumor cells and then see how those changes move and reshape immune and support cells around the tumor. By combining gene editing (such as CRISPR) with detailed spatial maps of tumor tissue, the team will identify which genes recruit, position, or repel immune cells and stromal elements. The work will use breast cancer tumors and experimental models to link specific gene changes to resistance to immune attack. The goal is to reveal vulnerability points that could be targeted to improve immune-based and other cancer treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with breast cancer, particularly those whose tumors resist immunotherapy or who are willing to donate tumor tissue for research, would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: People without breast cancer or those seeking immediate changes to their current treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reveal new drug targets that make immunotherapy and other treatments more effective for people with breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous CRISPR screening studies have found genes that affect tumor immunity, but combining these screens with spatial functional mapping (Perturb-map) in tissue is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brown, Brian D — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Brown, Brian D
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.