Investigating how succinate affects cancer cell behavior in breast cancer
Official title: The PLOD2/succinate axis in cancer cell plasticity and stemness
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-10916193 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called succinate affects the behavior of triple-negative breast cancer cells, with the hope of finding new ways to improve treatment for patients with this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $347,390 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA274981-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916193 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-breast cancers or those without a diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of succinate, a metabolite involved in energy production, in the behavior of breast cancer cells, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The study examines how succinate influences cell plasticity and stemness, which are critical for cancer spread and metastasis. By manipulating the levels of succinate and studying its effects on cancer cells, researchers aim to uncover new insights into the mechanisms that drive cancer progression. This could lead to potential therapeutic targets for improving treatment outcomes in breast cancer patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing cancer metastasis and improving treatment options for breast cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights and advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Ren — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Xu, Ren
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.