How two types of immune cells support breast tissue health
Functions of ductal- and stromal-associated macrophages in the mammary gland
This work looks at how two kinds of immune cells in the breast help shape and protect breast tissue during development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124624 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying macrophages that live either next to the milk ducts or in the surrounding breast tissue to learn how they keep the breast healthy. Using adult mice, they compare gene activity in these two macrophage types and focus on two molecules called C/EBPb and Gas6. The team removes these genes in animals during key developmental windows and watches how the ducts and surrounding tissue change. The goal is to understand mechanisms that could link macrophage behavior to breast health and cancer risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People interested in contributing to research on breast health—for example by donating tissue samples or taking part in future related clinical studies—would be the most relevant participants.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatments for existing breast cancer or those with unrelated medical conditions are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to lower breast cancer risk or guide prevention strategies by targeting macrophage-driven pathways.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have identified distinct macrophage populations in the mammary gland, but focusing on C/EBPb and Gas6 as key effectors in these populations is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
New Orleans, United States
- Tulane University of Louisiana — New Orleans, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Machado, Heather L — Tulane University of Louisiana
- Study coordinator: Machado, Heather L
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.