How DNA damage repair proteins affect breast cancer growth and treatment resistance

Regulation of the tumor microenvironment by DNA damage repair proteins

NIH-funded research San Diego State University · NIH-10888406

This study is looking at how a protein called MLH1 affects estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, aiming to find out how its loss might change the way cancer grows and responds to treatment, which could help develop better treatment options for patients with this type of cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSan Diego State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, United States)
Project IDNIH-10888406 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a specific protein, MLH1, in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, which is a common type of breast cancer. It aims to understand how the loss of MLH1 affects the secretion of certain molecules that can promote cancer growth and resistance to standard treatments. By using both laboratory experiments and animal models, the researchers will explore the mechanisms behind this process and how it may influence patient outcomes. The findings could lead to new strategies for treating patients with ER+ breast cancer who have MLH1 loss.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, especially those with known MLH1 loss.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of breast cancer or those without MLH1 loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with ER+ breast cancer, particularly those with MLH1 loss.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting molecular pathways related to DNA damage repair can be effective in treating certain cancers, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, 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.
Conditions Breast CancerBreast Cancer CellBreast Cancer Cell Differentiation Factor P45Cancer InductionCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.