Improving diagnostic methods for low HER2 breast cancer and targeted therapy

Next-generation diagnostic approaches for HER2-low breast cancer and trastuzumab deruxtecan therapy

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11063782

This study is working on a new test to help doctors better identify breast cancer patients with low HER2 levels, so they can choose the best treatment options, especially for those who might benefit from a specific therapy called trastuzumab deruxtecan.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11063782 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced diagnostic techniques to better identify patients with low HER2 expression in breast cancer, which is crucial for determining the most effective treatment options. The study aims to create a high-sensitivity HER2 assay that can accurately classify patients, addressing the limitations of outdated methods that often lead to misdiagnosis. By analyzing the spatial patterns of HER2 expression and tumor characteristics, the research seeks to enhance the precision of treatment selection, particularly for those eligible for trastuzumab deruxtecan therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with HER2-low or HER2-negative breast cancer who may benefit from targeted therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with HER2-positive breast cancer or those who do not have breast cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and improved treatment outcomes for patients with HER2-low breast cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing advanced diagnostic techniques for breast cancer, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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 Advanced Canceranti-cancer research
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.