Investigating how ceramide kinase affects the growth of aggressive breast cancer
Official title: The role of ceramide kinase in metastasis growth from aggressive breast cancer
Funded at Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp · NIH-10827983 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein called CERK and its related molecule might affect the growth and spread of tough types of breast cancer, like triple-negative and HER2+, to find new ways to treat these cancers better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Buffalo, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $86,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R03CA280307-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10827983 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with triple-negative or HER2+ breast cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage or non-aggressive forms of breast cancer may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of ceramide kinase (CERK) and its metabolite ceramide-1-phosphate (C1P) in the progression of aggressive breast cancers, particularly triple-negative and HER2+ types. By examining how CERK influences cancer cell survival, migration, and response to treatment, the study aims to uncover new therapeutic targets. The approach includes analyzing the expression of CERK in breast cancer cells and its potential signaling pathways that contribute to tumor aggressiveness. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative treatment strategies for difficult-to-treat breast cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for patients with aggressive breast cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting sphingolipid metabolites in cancer therapy, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp
Buffalo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hait, Nitai — Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp
- Study coordinator: Hait, Nitai
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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.