How mitochondrial DNA affects breast aging and cancer risk
Official title: Understanding the influence of Mitochondrial DNA haplotypes on breast aging and cancer
Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11054649 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the tiny energy factories in our cells, called mitochondria, might affect how breast tissue ages and the risk of breast cancer in older women, and it invites patients to help by sharing samples to learn more about this connection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $475,041 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG075589-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11054649 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are older women, particularly those who are post-menopausal and may be at risk for breast cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 50 or do not have a family history of breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how variations in mitochondrial DNA may influence the aging process of breast tissue and the development of breast cancer, particularly in older women. The study focuses on different cell types within the mammary ductal tree and examines how mitochondrial function declines with age in certain cells, while others maintain their function. By analyzing these differences, the research aims to uncover the genetic factors that contribute to the risk of developing estrogen receptor alpha positive breast cancer as women age. Patients may be involved in providing biological samples to help understand these mechanisms better.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating breast cancer in older women by targeting mitochondrial function.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mitochondrial function in aging and cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Germain, Doris a — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Germain, Doris a
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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.