Investigating a new treatment for aggressive breast cancer

Ribonucleotide Reductase as a Driver of Breast Cancer Aggressiveness

NIH-funded research Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-11172398

This study is looking at a new treatment called TMU27a that targets a specific enzyme in aggressive breast cancer to help slow down tumor growth and reduce side effects compared to current therapies.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11172398 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the role of ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) in the progression of aggressive breast cancer. It aims to develop a novel, non-nucleoside inhibitor called TMU27a, which targets RNR to induce DNA damage in cancer cells without the severe side effects associated with existing treatments like gemcitabine. By testing this new inhibitor in various human and mouse breast cancer cell lines, the research seeks to understand its effectiveness in slowing tumor growth and improving patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with advanced or aggressive breast cancer who have limited treatment options.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment option for patients with advanced breast cancer that minimizes harmful side effects.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting RNR for cancer treatment, but the specific approach of using TMU27a is novel and untested.

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.
Conditions advanced breast canceradvanced diseaseadvanced stage breast canceraggressive breast cancer
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.