Investigating how breast cancer secreted miRNA affects brain metastasis

Role of breast cancer secreted miRNA in brain metastasis

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11015833

This study is looking at how breast cancer cells send out tiny molecules that might change how brain cells work, which could help the cancer spread to the brain, and by understanding this, the researchers hope to find new ways to prevent or treat brain metastasis and possibly use these molecules to help detect if breast cancer has spread to the brain.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015833 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how breast cancer cells release specific microRNAs (miRNAs) that can alter the metabolism of brain cells, potentially leading to the spread of cancer to the brain. By studying the interactions between cancer cells and normal brain cells, the researchers aim to uncover new therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat brain metastasis. The project will also explore the possibility of using these miRNAs as blood-based biomarkers to detect breast cancer that has spread to the brain. Patients may benefit from novel treatment options developed through this research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those at risk of or experiencing 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 preventive and therapeutic strategies for patients with breast cancer that has spread to the brain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of miRNAs in cancer metastasis, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.