PlexinB2 and how breast cancer cells travel together in the blood
Novel functions of PlexinB2 in circulating tumor cell clusters
This research looks at how a protein called PlexinB2 helps aggressive triple-negative breast cancer cells form clusters and interact with immune cells in the bloodstream.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11290869 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The project focuses on triple-negative breast cancer and a surface protein called PlexinB2 that appears to promote tumor cell clustering in blood. Researchers will combine computer analysis of protein data, tumor and blood samples, and lab experiments to map how PlexinB2 helps cancer cells stick to each other and to white blood cells like monocytes. They will test whether blocking PlexinB2 or its partners changes cluster formation and reduces spread to organs such as the lungs. From a patient perspective, this work could inform blood tests or new therapies aimed at preventing metastasis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with triple-negative breast cancer, especially those with detectable circulating tumor cells or at high risk for metastasis.
Not a fit: People with hormone-receptor-positive or HER2-positive breast cancers or those without circulating tumor cells are less likely to receive direct benefit from this specific work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to prevent or reduce metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical work has suggested that disrupting circulating tumor cell clusters can lower metastasis, but targeting PlexinB2 and CTC–immune interactions is a newer approach not yet proven in patients.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Huiping — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Liu, Huiping
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.