Investigating the link between certain chemicals and breast cancer risk

Perfluoroalkyl substances and breast cancer tissue biomarkers

NIH-funded research University of Massachusetts Amherst · NIH-10738987

This study is looking at how certain chemicals called PFAS, found in everyday products, might affect breast cancer development by examining breast tissue samples, and it's for anyone interested in understanding the potential risks these substances may pose.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hadley, United States)
Project IDNIH-10738987 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are chemicals found in many consumer products, may influence breast cancer development. The study will analyze human breast tissue to explore the relationship between PFAS exposure and specific tissue characteristics associated with breast cancer risk. By examining serum concentrations of PFAS and their effects on breast tissue morphology, the research aims to provide insights into the potential carcinogenic effects of these substances. Participants' breast tissue samples will be sourced from a biorepository to facilitate this investigation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of PFAS exposure or those concerned about breast cancer risk.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of PFAS exposure or those without breast cancer risk factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding of environmental factors contributing to breast cancer, potentially guiding prevention strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While there is preliminary evidence linking PFAS exposure to breast cancer, this specific investigation into human breast tissue is novel and has not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

Hadley, 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 Breast 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.