Investigating how specific bone cells influence breast cancer growth and spread
Official title: Role of Osterix+ Osteolineage Cells in Primary and Metastatic Breast Cancer
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11026446 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special bone cells in breast cancer to see how they might help tumors grow and spread, and it aims to find new ways to treat the disease by understanding how these cells interact with cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | February 20, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $372,340 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA270030-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11026446 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with advanced or metastatic disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those not expressing Osterix+ cells may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Osterix+ osteolineage cells in the tumor microenvironment of breast cancer. It examines how these cells, which are typically involved in bone formation, may contribute to the growth and metastasis of breast tumors by creating a supportive environment. The study involves analyzing tissue samples from breast cancer patients and using animal models to understand the interactions between these cells and cancer cells. By identifying the mechanisms through which these cells affect tumor behavior, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating breast cancer by targeting the supportive cells in the tumor environment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting the tumor microenvironment can improve cancer treatment outcomes, suggesting that this approach may also be promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Faccio, Roberta — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Faccio, Roberta
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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.