Investigating how low levels of a specific enzyme affect breast cancer spread
Examining PHGDH-mediated activation of sialic acid metabolism to drive triple-negative breast cancer metastasis
This study is looking at how a protein called PHGDH affects the spread of triple-negative breast cancer, and it aims to find out if lower levels of this protein lead to changes in how the cancer cells use certain sugars, which might help them grow and spread more easily.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11015076 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PHGDH) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) metastasis. It focuses on how low expression of PHGDH leads to increased sialic acid metabolism, which may drive cancer spread. The study employs various methodologies, including gene knockout experiments and mass spectrometry, to understand the metabolic changes associated with low PHGDH levels. By examining the non-canonical functions of PHGDH, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms that contribute to cancer progression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, particularly those with aggressive disease characteristics.
Not a fit: Patients with non-triple-negative breast cancer or those at early stages of the disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic pathways in aggressive breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting PHGDH in this context is novel, similar metabolic studies have shown promise in understanding cancer progression.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lunt, Sophia — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Lunt, Sophia
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.