Investigating how obesity affects breast cancer growth and treatment resistance

Targeting RAGE in tumor and TME to oppose inflammation and drug resistance in obesity associated ER+ breast cancer

NIH-funded research Georgetown University · NIH-10884269

This study is looking at how being overweight might raise the risk of a certain type of breast cancer in women after menopause, and it aims to find new ways to improve treatment by understanding how inflammation and hormones play a role in this connection.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionGeorgetown University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Washington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10884269 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the link between obesity and increased risk of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It examines how obesity-induced inflammation and elevated estrogen levels contribute to cancer growth and resistance to therapies. The study explores the role of the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End-products (RAGE) and its interaction with inflammatory pathways in breast cancer cells and surrounding tissues. By targeting these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new strategies to improve treatment outcomes for affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer who are also classified as obese.

Not a fit: Patients with non-estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer or those who are not obese may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for breast cancer in obese patients, potentially reducing mortality rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting inflammatory pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights and advancements.

Where this research is happening

Washington, 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.