New genetic and immune targets to stop HER2-positive breast tumors
Defining Cancer Intervention Targets by Functional Genomics Analysis of Outbred F1 Mice
Researchers are using genetically diverse mouse models to find immune and genetic targets that could help stop HER2-positive breast cancer from growing or coming back.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11323998 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses HER2/Neu-transgenic mice crossed with genetically diverse strains to mimic how HER2-driven tumors behave across different genetic backgrounds. Scientists will map tumor growth traits to specific genetic regions, combine single-cell RNA data and pathway analysis, and compare findings with human clinical outcome data to pick promising targets. One highlighted target is LILRB4, a checkpoint molecule on myeloid antigen-presenting cells that may blunt anti-tumor immune responses. The team plans preclinical tests of interventions aimed at these actionable targets to see if they slow tumor growth or reduce recurrence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with HER2-positive breast cancer would be the most relevant group for therapies that might be developed from these findings.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers are not driven by HER2 or whose tumors do not involve the examined immune pathways are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets (like LILRB4) for therapies that boost immune attack and lower the chance of HER2-positive breast cancer returning.
How similar studies have performed: Broad immune checkpoint therapies (e.g., PD-1/PD-L1) have helped some cancers, but targeting APC-specific checkpoints such as LILRB4 is relatively new and mainly at the preclinical stage so far.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jacob, Jennifer B — Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Jacob, Jennifer B
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 below.