How the protein SNED1 builds the support network around cells
Mechanisms guiding the fibrillar assembly of SNED1 in the extracellular matrix
Researchers are learning how the protein SNED1 helps build the tissue scaffold and why higher SNED1 is linked to more aggressive breast cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11146450 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses mouse models, lab-grown human cells, and purified proteins to see how SNED1 fibers form in the extracellular matrix. The team created the first SNED1 knockout mouse to observe what happens when SNED1 is missing and will apply microscopy and biochemical binding tests to map fiber assembly. They will also compare SNED1 levels in human breast tumor samples to connect molecular findings to aggressive tumor behavior. Together these approaches aim to reveal steps in matrix assembly that could explain how SNED1 affects cancer progression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with breast cancer—particularly those whose tumors show high SNED1 levels or aggressive clinical features—or people willing to donate tumor tissue would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without breast cancer or whose tumors lack SNED1 expression are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could explain why high SNED1 links to worse breast cancer outcomes and point to new biomarkers or targets for treating aggressive tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Studies of other extracellular matrix proteins like fibronectin and collagen have successfully linked matrix assembly to cancer behavior, but SNED1 itself is a relatively new and less-tested target.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Naba, Alexandra — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Naba, Alexandra
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.