Investigating how a specific enzyme influences breast cancer spread

Dihydroceramide desaturase (DES1) as a mediator of receptor tyrosine kinase-driven metastasis in breast cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK · NIH-11067801

This study is looking at how a specific protein called DES1 helps breast cancer cells survive when they detach from their original spot, which could lead to new treatments to stop the cancer from spreading.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11067801 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of dihydroceramide desaturase 1 (DES1) in breast cancer metastasis, particularly how it helps cancer cells resist a process called anoikis, which normally leads to cell death when they detach from their original site. By studying the mechanisms behind this resistance, researchers aim to identify new potential targets for therapies that could prevent or reduce the spread of breast cancer. The research involves both laboratory experiments and animal models to explore the effects of manipulating DES1 levels on cancer cell behavior and metastasis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with HER2-positive breast cancer, particularly those with advanced or metastatic disease.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those whose cancer is not HER2-positive may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target the mechanisms of metastasis in breast cancer, improving outcomes for patients with advanced disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

STONY BROOK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy, Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Cell

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.