NIH-funded research R21 grant

Improving immune response against triple negative breast cancer

Official title: Enhancing Tumor Cell Immunogenicity using Improved Molecules Targeting Chromatin Remodeling

Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11000795 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is exploring a new way to help the immune system fight advanced triple negative breast cancer by using a mix of treatments that target specific proteins and genes, and it's being tested in mice to see how well it works.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Commonwealth University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richmond, United States)
Project startDecember 13, 2023
Project endNovember 30, 2025
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$181,332
NIH project number5R21CA277437-02
Project IDNIH-11000795 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with advanced stage triple negative breast cancer who are seeking new treatment options.

Less likely to help

Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this specific research.

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach to enhance the immune response against advanced stage triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) by combining specific chemotherapies with targeted therapies that affect chromatin remodeling. The study focuses on inhibiting a protein called BPTF, which plays a role in regulating gene expression, to boost the immunogenicity of tumor cells. By using a combination of BPTF inhibition and a DNA methyl transferase inhibitor, researchers aim to stimulate the immune system to better recognize and attack TNBC cells. This approach is being tested in mouse models to evaluate its effectiveness in controlling tumor growth.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing tumor immunogenicity through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel combination therapy.

Where this research is happening

  • Virginia Commonwealth University
    Richmond, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Landry, Joseph William — Virginia Commonwealth University
  • Study coordinator: Landry, Joseph William

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.