How inherited cancer genes affect tumor behavior and treatment response

Impact of cancer predisposition on oncogenic process, microenvironment, and treatment

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11004023

This study is looking at how inherited genes might affect the way different cancers grow and respond to treatments, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about their cancer and how it might be influenced by their family history.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11004023 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of inherited genetic variants on cancer development and treatment outcomes. By analyzing over 10,000 tumors from various cancer types, the study aims to understand how these germline variants differ from somatic mutations in influencing cancer cell characteristics and responses to therapies. The researchers utilize advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to profile gene expression in both cancerous and non-cancerous cells within the tumor microenvironment. This comprehensive approach seeks to uncover the roles of specific genes, such as BRCA1/2, in tumor progression and treatment efficacy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of cancer or known germline mutations in cancer predisposition genes.

Not a fit: Patients without any known genetic predispositions or those with cancers unrelated to the genes being studied may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for cancer patients based on their genetic predispositions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of genetic variants in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.