Investigating how changes in a protein affect breast cancer spread

The Role of EpCAM Glycosylation in Breast Cancer Metastasis

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11084303

This study is looking at a protein called EpCAM to see how it helps breast cancer spread, and it's for people with breast cancer who want to understand more about how their disease works and what new treatments might be developed.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11084303 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called EpCAM in the spread of breast cancer. It examines how modifications to this protein may influence the ability of cancer cells to invade tissues and metastasize to other parts of the body. By analyzing samples from breast cancer patients, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind EpCAM's involvement in cancer progression, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies. The research employs advanced biochemical techniques to assess protein expression and modifications in both primary tumors and metastatic sites.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer who are undergoing treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those without a diagnosis of breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target the mechanisms of breast cancer metastasis, improving outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of EpCAM in other epithelial cancers, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.