Improving breast cancer treatment by targeting a specific enzyme to enhance drug effectiveness

Targeting 6-Phosphofructo-2-Kinase to increase efficacy of CDK4/6 Inhibitors

NIH-funded research University of Louisville · NIH-10872259

This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called PFKFB3 affects the way some patients with advanced hormone receptor-positive breast cancer respond to certain treatments, with the hope of finding better ways to help these patients get the most out of their therapies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Louisville NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Louisville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10872259 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the enzyme 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase (PFKFB3) contributes to resistance against CDK4/6 inhibitors in patients with stage IV hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. By understanding the role of PFKFB3 in cancer cell metabolism, the researchers aim to develop new strategies that could enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments. The study involves laboratory experiments and analysis of patient tumor samples to identify how PFKFB3 activity changes in response to treatment. Ultimately, the goal is to find ways to overcome treatment resistance and improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with stage IV hormone receptor-positive breast cancer who are currently receiving or have received CDK4/6 inhibitors.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those who do not have hormone receptor-positive breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with advanced breast cancer, potentially prolonging survival and improving quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may also yield beneficial outcomes.

Where this research is happening

Louisville, 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.
Conditions Breast CancerBreast Cancer CellBreast Cancer Model
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.