Increasing immune cells in metastatic breast cancer by targeting HSF1.

Targeting heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) to increase tumor infiltrating lymphocytes in metastatic breast cancer.

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11049520

This study is looking at how blocking a protein called HSF1 might help boost the number of immune cells, especially CD8+ T cells, in breast cancer tumors that have spread, with the goal of finding better ways to improve cancer treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11049520 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how targeting heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) can enhance the presence of immune cells, particularly CD8+ T cells, in metastatic breast cancer tumors. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which HSF1 suppresses immune cell infiltration and how its inhibition can lead to improved immune responses against tumors. By analyzing the relationship between HSF1 activity and immune cell presence, the research seeks to develop strategies that could make existing cancer therapies more effective for patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer who have low levels of CD8+ T cells in their tumors.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those whose tumors do not exhibit low CD8+ T cell levels may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients with metastatic breast cancer by enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting immune cell regulation can enhance anti-tumor responses, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.