Improving breast cancer treatment by normalizing arginine metabolism with sepiapterin

Normalizing arginine metabolism with sepiaptein for immunostimulatory-shift ofHER2+ breast cancer

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10805528

This study is looking at how a natural compound called sepiapterin can help boost the immune system's fight against breast cancer by changing how cancer cells use a substance called arginine, which could lead to better treatment results with fewer side effects for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10805528 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how sepiapterin, a natural compound, can adjust the metabolism of arginine in breast cancer cells to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy. By redirecting arginine metabolism away from pathways that promote tumor growth and immune suppression, the study aims to improve the immune response against breast cancer. The approach focuses on increasing nitric oxide production, which may help reduce tumor growth and improve patient outcomes with minimal side effects. Patients may benefit from this innovative treatment strategy if it proves effective.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with HER2+ breast cancer who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of breast cancer or those who are not HER2+ may not benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapy options for breast cancer patients, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using metabolic modulation to enhance cancer immunotherapy, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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.