Investigating how a specific protein influences breast cancer spread to the brain
Roles of tGLI1 and microRNA Network in Breast Cancer Brain Metastasis
This study is looking at how a protein called tGLI1 helps breast cancer spread to the brain, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding more about how breast cancer can affect the brain and what might help stop it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11075129 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called tGLI1 in the spread of breast cancer to the brain. The researchers have discovered that tGLI1, which is a modified version of a gene involved in cancer, can enhance the ability of breast cancer cells to migrate and invade brain tissue. They are using mouse models to study how tGLI1 affects brain metastasis and how it interacts with brain cells called astrocytes, which can promote tumor growth. The study also examines the role of microRNAs, which are small molecules that can influence cancer progression, in this process.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with breast cancer, particularly those who have experienced or are at risk for brain metastasis.
Not a fit: Patients with breast cancer that has not metastasized or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating breast cancer that has spread to the brain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting specific proteins and their pathways can be effective in treating metastasis, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lo, Hui-Wen — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Lo, Hui-Wen
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.