Investigating how tumor-immune interactions affect brain metastases in triple-negative breast cancer

Do Tumor-Immune Interactions Prime Systemic Tolerance of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Brain Metastases?

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10735596

This study is looking at how triple-negative breast cancer that has spread to the brain interacts with the immune system, especially in women of African ancestry, to find out what makes the cancer spread and how it affects patients' outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10735596 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the complex interactions between tumors and the immune system in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) that has spread to the brain. By employing systems biology approaches, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that drive metastasis and contribute to cancer disparities, particularly among women of African ancestry. The research will analyze the immune environment in TNBC brain metastases to identify factors that influence metastatic potential and patient outcomes. This comprehensive approach includes a mentoring and career development plan for the principal investigator to ensure the research is conducted effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, particularly those who have developed brain metastases.

Not a fit: Patients with non-triple-negative breast cancer or those without brain metastases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with triple-negative breast cancer and brain metastases, potentially enhancing survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on primary TNBC, the specific focus on tumor-immune interactions in brain metastases is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.