NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating a new treatment for aggressive breast cancer using targeted antibody therapy

Official title: Preclinical efficacy of GPR56 antibody-drug conjugates and combination therapies for triple-negative breast cancer

Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11112706 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is exploring a new treatment for triple-negative breast cancer that uses special drugs designed to target cancer cells directly, which could help improve results and lessen side effects for patients.

More Breast Cancer research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project startMarch 10, 2025
Project endFebruary 28, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$215,311
NIH project number1R21CA291788-01A1
Project IDNIH-11112706 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, particularly those who have not responded well to existing therapies.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-triple-negative breast cancer or those who are not eligible for experimental therapies may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new type of treatment for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which is known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. The approach involves using antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) that combine antibodies specifically targeting cancer cells with potent drugs to deliver treatment directly to tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. The study aims to identify GPR56, a receptor found on TNBC cells, as a target for these ADCs, potentially improving treatment outcomes and reducing side effects for patients. By testing these therapies in preclinical models, the research seeks to establish their effectiveness and safety before moving to clinical trials.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatment options for patients with triple-negative breast cancer.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results with similar antibody-drug conjugate approaches in treating various cancers, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
    Houston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Carmon, Kendra S. — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
  • Study coordinator: Carmon, Kendra S.

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.