How a specific protein affects immune cells in breast cancer
Official title: Regulation of tumor associated macrophage function by STAT5 in breast cancer
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11098820 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called STAT5 affects immune cells in breast cancer tumors, with the goal of finding ways to help your body fight the cancer better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $499,744 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA299093-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11098820 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with breast cancer who may benefit from improved anti-tumor immune responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-breast cancer types or those who are not currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called STAT5 in regulating immune cells known as macrophages within breast cancer tumors. By understanding how STAT5 influences macrophage behavior, the study aims to identify ways to enhance the immune response against tumors. The researchers will use genetic techniques to manipulate STAT5 levels in macrophages and observe the effects on tumor growth and spread. This approach could lead to new strategies for improving breast cancer treatment by boosting the body's natural defenses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for breast cancer by enhancing the immune system's ability to fight tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating immune cell functions to improve cancer treatment outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwertfeger, Kathryn L — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Schwertfeger, Kathryn L
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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.