How BRCA1 affects immune cells in fighting cancer
Official title: T Cell-Specific BRCA1 Function in Antitumor Immunity and Immunotherapy
Funded at George Washington University · NIH-10880590 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the BRCA1 gene might affect certain immune cells that help fight cancer, especially in women with BRCA1 mutations, to find new ways to boost their immune response against tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $583,876 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA282303-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10880590 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women with germline BRCA1 mutations who are at high risk for developing breast cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without BRCA1 mutations or those with advanced-stage breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the BRCA1 gene in CD8+ T cells, which are crucial for the immune system's ability to fight tumors. It aims to understand how mutations in the BRCA1 gene may impair the function of these immune cells, potentially leading to increased cancer risk in women with BRCA1 mutations. By studying both human samples and mouse models, the research seeks to uncover new insights into the relationship between BRCA1 and antitumor immunity. The findings could lead to novel therapeutic strategies that enhance immune responses in patients with BRCA1 mutations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immunotherapy strategies for patients with BRCA1 mutations, enhancing their ability to fight breast cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the immune system's role in cancer, but this specific focus on BRCA1 in T cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
George Washington University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Rong — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Li, Rong
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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.