How BRCA1 affects immune cells in fighting cancer

T Cell-Specific BRCA1 Function in Antitumor Immunity and Immunotherapy

['FUNDING_R01'] · GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10880590

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

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorGEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10880590 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women with germline BRCA1 mutations who are at high risk for developing breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients without BRCA1 mutations or those with advanced-stage breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

WASHINGTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer 1 Gene, Breast Cancer 1 Gene Product, Breast Cancer Type 1 Susceptibility Gene, Breast Cancer Type 1 Susceptibility Protein

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.