Investigating how a specific RNA affects breast cancer treatment resistance

LncRNA EPIC1 induces immunotherapy resistance by activating EZH2 in breast cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10870007

This study is looking at how a specific molecule called EPIC1 might make breast cancer harder to treat with immunotherapy, and it will test a new drug to see if it can help improve treatment for patients like you.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10870007 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a long noncoding RNA, EPIC1, contributes to resistance against immunotherapy in breast cancer patients. The team will analyze human breast cancer samples to explore the relationship between EPIC1 and immune suppression, and will investigate the mechanisms by which EPIC1 activates the EZH2 protein. Additionally, they will test the effectiveness of a drug called tazemetostat, both alone and in combination with an existing immunotherapy, in mouse models that mimic human breast cancer. This comprehensive approach aims to identify new strategies to improve treatment outcomes for patients with breast cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer patients, especially those with triple negative breast cancer who may be experiencing resistance to current immunotherapy treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with non-breast cancers or those who do not have triple negative breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immunotherapy responses for breast cancer patients, particularly those with high levels of EPIC1.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting RNA mechanisms in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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: Animal Cancer Model, Anti-Cancer Agents

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.