Investigating how alcohol affects breast cancer stem cells

Alcohol-Associated Toxicity and Genomic Instability of Mammary Stem Cells

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10894187

This study is looking at how drinking alcohol might affect certain cells in the breast that can lead to cancer, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding more about breast cancer and how to prevent it.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10894187 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of alcohol consumption on mammary stem cells and its potential role in breast cancer development. It focuses on understanding how alcohol-derived acetaldehyde can cause genetic mutations and genomic instability in these cells, which may lead to cancer initiation. The study employs advanced 3D cell culture techniques and animal models to investigate the mechanisms behind alcohol-induced tumor formation. By examining the effects on cancer stem cells, the research aims to uncover critical pathways that could inform prevention and treatment strategies for breast cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol consumption who are at risk for breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no risk factors for breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into breast cancer prevention and treatment strategies related to alcohol consumption.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that alcohol can promote cancer through similar mechanisms, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.