How the CTLH protein complex and WDR26 affect HER2-positive breast cancer
Role of the CTLH E3 ubiquitin ligase in breast cancer progression
Scientists are testing whether blocking a protein complex called CTLH and its partner WDR26 can help people with HER2-positive breast cancer respond better to HER2 drugs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11295396 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers at the University of Iowa will look at how signaling from a subgroup of GPCRs (Gi/o-GPCRs) may drive HER2-positive breast cancer through the CTLH E3 ubiquitin ligase complex. They will focus on WDR26, a scaffolding protein that is often increased in breast tumors, and use laboratory-grown human cancer cells and genetically engineered mouse models where WDR26 is deleted. The team will measure tumor growth, signaling changes, and responses to HER2-targeted therapies, and will analyze how the CTLH complex tags proteins for degradation. The work aims to see whether blocking this pathway can reduce tumor progression and make existing HER2 drugs more effective.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with HER2-positive breast cancer—particularly those whose tumors have stopped responding to HER2 therapies—would be the most relevant candidates for future related clinical research.
Not a fit: Patients without HER2-positive tumors or those seeking immediate treatment gains are unlikely to get direct benefit from this laboratory-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new ways to overcome resistance to HER2-targeted therapies and improve outcomes for people with HER2-positive breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Blocking Gi/o-GPCR signaling has shown promise in preclinical studies to slow HER2-driven tumors and boost HER2 drugs, but targeting the CTLH complex and WDR26 in this setting is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Songhai — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Chen, Songhai
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.