NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating how a specific protein complex affects breast cancer progression

Official title: Role of the CTLH E3 ubiquitin ligase in breast cancer progression

Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11052532 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a specific protein complex affects the growth of HER2-positive breast cancers, which can be tough to treat, and aims to find new ways to make treatments work better for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2024
Project endMarch 31, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$497,084
NIH project number5R01CA282699-02
Project IDNIH-11052532 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer who may be experiencing challenges with current therapies.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-HER2-positive breast cancer or those who are not currently undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on HER2-positive breast cancers, which are known for their aggressive nature and poor prognosis. The team aims to understand how a protein complex called the CTLH E3 ubiquitin ligase influences the progression of these cancers, particularly in relation to drug resistance against HER2-targeted therapies. By studying the signaling pathways involved, the researchers hope to identify new therapeutic targets that could enhance treatment effectiveness. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved strategies for managing HER2-positive breast cancer.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer, potentially overcoming current drug resistance issues.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting G protein coupled receptors in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Iowa
    Iowa City, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Chen, Songhai — University of Iowa
  • Study coordinator: Chen, Songhai

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.