How gut microbes and bile acids affect breast cancer
Role of microbial-modulated bile acid receptor signaling in breast cancer
This study is looking at how tiny germs in our bodies and their byproducts, like bile acids, might affect breast cancer, especially the more aggressive types like Triple Negative Breast Cancer, by seeing how they interact with immune cells in the tumor area, which could help us understand treatment responses and cancer growth better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10836477 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microbial communities and their metabolites, particularly bile acids, in influencing breast cancer outcomes. It focuses on understanding how these microbes interact with immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, especially in aggressive forms of breast cancer like Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC). By examining the differences in microbial populations between tumor and normal breast tissue, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could affect treatment responses and cancer progression. The research employs advanced microbiome analysis techniques to identify specific microbes and their metabolites that may play a role in tumor immunity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with Triple Negative Breast Cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with non-breast cancers or those without any microbial involvement in their cancer progression may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve treatment outcomes for breast cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of gut microbiota in cancer has been explored, this specific investigation into extra-intestinal microbial communities and their impact on breast cancer is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Memphis, United States
- University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr — Memphis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Makowski-Hayes, Liza — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Makowski-Hayes, Liza
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.