Investigating the role of extrachromosomal DNA in HER2-positive breast cancer
Official title: The role of extrachromosomal DNA in HER2-amplified breast cancer
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11032693 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special type of DNA found in tumors might make it harder to treat HER2-positive breast cancer, with the hope of finding better ways to diagnose and treat patients facing this tough challenge.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $187,887 |
| NIH project number | 1K08CA296931-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032693 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer, particularly those experiencing treatment resistance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of breast cancer that do not involve HER2 amplification may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) contributes to the challenges faced in treating HER2-positive breast cancer. By analyzing patient samples and utilizing advanced sequencing techniques alongside organoid models, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which HER2 ecDNA influences tumor behavior and treatment resistance. The goal is to provide insights that could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with this aggressive form of breast cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments and better outcomes for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of ecDNA in other cancers has been explored, this specific investigation into HER2-positive breast cancer is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weiser, Natasha Elise — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Weiser, Natasha Elise
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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.