Investigating immune cell behavior to find markers for breast cancer progression

Studying macrophage polarization in search for predictive and prognostic markers of breast cancer

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11132450

This study is looking at a common type of breast cancer called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) to find out how certain immune cells in the tumor might help predict if the cancer will become more serious, which could lead to better treatment options and avoid unnecessary procedures for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11132450 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), the most common form of breast cancer, to identify markers that can predict whether it will progress to invasive disease. By studying macrophages, a type of immune cell present in the tumor microenvironment, the research aims to uncover how these cells influence cancer progression. The approach involves analyzing archival tissue specimens to understand the relationship between different macrophage subtypes and patient outcomes. This could help in developing strategies to prevent unnecessary treatments for patients diagnosed with DCIS.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

Not a fit: Patients with invasive breast cancer or other unrelated cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better predictive markers for breast cancer progression, potentially reducing overtreatment for many patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of immune cells in cancer progression, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

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.
Conditions anti-cancer researchanti-cancer therapyBreast Cancer
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.