NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Investigating how mesenchymal cell environments affect treatment in triple negative breast cancer

Official title: Distinct contributions of mesenchymal cell niches in the therapeutic potential of the hedgehog pathway in triple negative breast cancer

Funded at University of Puerto Rico Mayaguez · NIH-10666446 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain cells in the body affect the growth of triple negative breast cancer and how well treatments work, with the goal of finding better ways to help patients like you.

More Breast Cancer research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Puerto Rico Mayaguez
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Mayaguez, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2020
Project endJuly 31, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$375,000
NIH project number5SC1GM131967-04
Project IDNIH-10666446 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer who may benefit from targeted therapies.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-triple negative breast cancer or those who are not eligible for Hh inhibitor treatments may not receive benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of mesenchymal cells in the growth and treatment response of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) by examining the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway. Researchers aim to develop in vitro models that mimic the tumor environment to identify how different types of mesenchymal cells influence the effectiveness of Hh inhibitors. By studying these interactions, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic targets and improve treatment outcomes for patients with TNBC.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment strategies for patients with triple negative breast cancer.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting the Hedgehog signaling pathway in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Puerto Rico Mayaguez
    Mayaguez, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Domenech, Maribella — University of Puerto Rico Mayaguez
  • Study coordinator: Domenech, Maribella

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.