Investigating DNMT inhibitors combined with standard treatments for aggressive breast cancer

Preclinical and clinical characterization of DNMT inhibitors +/- standard chemoimmunotherapy in TNBC

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11044604

This study is looking at how well a new type of treatment using DNMT inhibitors works when combined with regular chemotherapy and immunotherapy for people with triple-negative breast cancer, and it aims to find out which patients might benefit the most based on specific markers in their tumors.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11044604 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a particularly aggressive form of breast cancer, by exploring the effectiveness of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors in combination with standard chemotherapy and immunotherapy. The study aims to identify specific patient subsets that are most likely to benefit from these treatments based on their unique biomarkers, particularly the presence of DNMT3A. By analyzing tumor samples and their response to these therapies, the research seeks to improve treatment outcomes for patients with TNBC. The approach includes both preclinical and clinical evaluations to understand the mechanisms of action and potential benefits of DNMT inhibitors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer who exhibit elevated levels of the DNMT3A biomarker.

Not a fit: Patients with other subtypes of breast cancer or those without the DNMT3A biomarker may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have performed: While DNMT inhibitors have shown limited efficacy in previous studies primarily focused on estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, emerging evidence suggests potential benefits in triple-negative breast cancer, making this research both innovative and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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 aggressive breast cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 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.