How early breast development shapes later breast cancer
Understanding the developmental perspective of mammary lineage commitment to model breast cancer
This research looks at genes active during early breast development to find what may trigger or drive breast cancer for people with or at risk of the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11360841 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's view, the team grows 3D mammary organoids in the lab that mimic early breast tissue and behavior. They use mouse embryonic stem cell–derived organoids that can form ducts and produce milk proteins to recreate key steps of breast development. The researchers apply single-cell RNA sequencing and CRISPR genetic screens to find specific genes that control cell fate and could start tumor formation. Their goal is to build a lab model of breast cancer initiation and identify candidate genes that might become targets for future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is preclinical laboratory research using mouse-derived organoids and does not enroll patients, so there are no candidates for participation.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or clinical trial enrollment are unlikely to benefit directly from this lab-focused project in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal early molecular switches that lead to breast cancer and point to new targets for prevention or therapy.
How similar studies have performed: Organoid models, single-cell sequencing, and CRISPR screening have proven useful in cancer research, but using embryonic stem cell–derived mammary organoids to model breast cancer initiation is a relatively new approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sahu, Sounak — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Sahu, Sounak
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.