Investigating how targeting aging cells can affect breast cancer development
Official title: Targeting Senescence and the senescent secretome to impact breast cancer formation
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10942512 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging cells might help cause breast cancer and will test if special drugs that get rid of these cells can lower the chances of developing tumors, which could lead to new ways to prevent breast cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $395,973 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA286419-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10942512 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for breast cancer, particularly those with a family history or genetic predisposition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are currently diagnosed with advanced breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of senescence, or aging cells, in the development of breast cancer. By using a specific breast cancer model that involves irradiating mammary fat pads and implanting certain cells, the researchers aim to explore how senescent cells contribute to tumor formation. They will test the effects of senolytic drugs, which are designed to eliminate these aging cells, to see if this can reduce the incidence of tumors. This approach could provide insights into new prevention strategies for breast cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent or reduce the risk of breast cancer by targeting aging cells.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting senescent cells to improve health outcomes, suggesting this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Korkola, James — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Korkola, James
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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.