Investigating how ceramides influence obesity-related breast cancer growth
Ceramides as novel drivers of metabolic dysfunction and colorectal cancer
This study is looking at how certain fats in our diet can affect a substance called ceramide, which might help breast cancer grow faster in people who are overweight, and it hopes to find ways to lower ceramide levels to slow down cancer progression and improve treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11073402 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of ceramides, a type of lipid, in the development and progression of breast cancer associated with obesity. It aims to understand how dietary fats can lead to increased ceramide production, which may accelerate tumor growth in breast cancer cells. By examining the metabolic pathways involved, the study will test interventions that lower ceramide levels to see if they can reduce the impact of high-fat diets on cancer progression. Patients may benefit from new therapeutic strategies developed from these findings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women who are obese and at risk for breast cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or those with non-breast cancer-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for breast cancer in obese patients, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the metabolic pathways of cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Summers, Scott a — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Summers, Scott a
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.