NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

How changes in tubulin phosphorylation affect breast cancer behavior

Official title: Phosphorylation of α/β Tubulin is a 'Toggle Switch' in Human Breast Cancer

Funded at Queens College · NIH-10850006 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain proteins in breast cancer cells can change when they are modified by enzymes, which might help us understand how these changes affect cancer growth and movement, ultimately aiming to find better treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionQueens College
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Flushing, United States)
Project startAugust 5, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2028
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$170,349
NIH project number1R16GM153696-01
Project IDNIH-10850006 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer who may benefit from novel treatment strategies targeting microtubule dynamics.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-breast cancer types or those whose cancer is not influenced by microtubule dynamics may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of phosphorylation in the α/β-tubulin proteins, which are crucial for the structure and function of cells, particularly in breast cancer. The study focuses on how specific enzymes, Protein Kinase C and cyclin-dependent kinase-1, influence the growth and movement of breast cancer cells by toggling the phosphorylation states of tubulin. By using advanced molecular simulations and experimental techniques, the researchers aim to understand how these changes can lead to different cancer behaviors, potentially providing new insights into treatment strategies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that target the mechanisms controlling breast cancer cell growth and movement.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting microtubule dynamics in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

  • Queens College
    Flushing, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Rotenberg, Susan a. — Queens College
  • Study coordinator: Rotenberg, Susan a.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.