How breast tumors communicate with tumor-associated macrophages
Tumor cell -TAM Paracrine Signaling in Breast Cancer
Researchers are looking at how breast cancer cells signal to nearby immune cells called tumor-associated macrophages to find ways to slow tumor growth and spread.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11286847 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on triple-negative and other breast cancers to understand how tumor cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) exchange signals in the tumor microenvironment. Investigators will profile signaling molecules in tumor samples and use lab-grown cells and animal models to map the pathways that make TAMs support tumor growth. They will test strategies to block pro-tumor signals or shift macrophages toward tumor-fighting behavior in models that mimic human disease. Findings will guide future efforts to develop therapies or biomarkers that could help more patients benefit from immune-based treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with breast cancer—particularly those with triple-negative breast cancer—who can provide tumor tissue samples or participate in tissue-based research are the best matches for this work.
Not a fit: Patients without breast cancer or those seeking immediate treatment change are unlikely to see direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to treatments that reprogram macrophages to boost anti-tumor immunity and improve outcomes for breast cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: Lab and early clinical studies targeting TAMs have shown promise in altering macrophage behavior, but broadly effective clinical therapies are not yet established.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yeh, Elizabeth — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Yeh, Elizabeth
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.