Investigating how progesterone receptors work in obesity to prevent endometrial cancer

Understanding Progesterone Receptor action in Obesity for Endometrial Cancer Prevention

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10889094

This study is looking at how being overweight might affect the way certain hormones work in the uterus, especially in women at risk for endometrial cancer, to find out how we can better prevent this type of cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10889094 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between obesity and endometrial cancer, focusing on the role of progesterone receptors in this context. It aims to understand how adipose tissue influences progesterone action in endometrial cells, particularly using innovative 3D spheroid cultures in microfluidic systems. By examining the effects of adipocytes on progesterone sensitivity and the underlying genetic changes, the study seeks to uncover mechanisms that could help prevent cancer development in obese women. The research employs advanced sequencing techniques to analyze small cell populations, providing insights into early tumorigenic changes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who are obese and at risk for developing endometrial cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or those who do not have a risk of endometrial cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing endometrial cancer in obese women by enhancing the understanding of progesterone's protective role.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is innovative, previous studies have shown that understanding hormonal interactions in obesity can lead to significant advancements in cancer prevention.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Conditions Cancer Induction
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.