Targeting a new molecule to treat aggressive breast cancer
Identification of NNMT as a New Target to Treat Triple-negative Breast Cancer
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY · NIH-11108037
This study is looking at how a specific molecule helps triple-negative breast cancer cells survive and spread, with the hope of creating a new treatment that could stop this aggressive cancer from growing and spreading.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LEXINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11108037 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a particularly aggressive form of breast cancer known for its high rates of recurrence and metastasis. The study aims to understand how TNBC cells adapt their metabolism to survive and spread, especially under conditions where they detach from their usual growth environment. Researchers are investigating a specific molecule, nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), which appears to play a crucial role in helping these cancer cells manage oxidative stress. By developing a targeted inhibitor for NNMT, the goal is to create a new treatment that could prevent the growth and spread of TNBC.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, particularly those experiencing aggressive disease progression.
Not a fit: Patients with other subtypes of breast cancer or those whose cancer is not metastatic may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel treatment that significantly improves survival rates for patients with triple-negative breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective, although the specific targeting of NNMT in TNBC is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
LEXINGTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY — LEXINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZHOU, BINHUA P — UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY
- Study coordinator: ZHOU, BINHUA P
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.
Conditions: anti-cancer research