Targeting a specific enzyme to treat breast cancer that has spread to the brain
Targeting FASN to eliminate metastatic breast cancer in the brain
This study is looking at how a common enzyme in breast cancer that spreads to the brain can be targeted using everyday heartburn medications to make cancer treatments work better for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Toledo Health Sci Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toledo, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10884918 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing metastatic breast cancer in the brain, a challenging condition due to the protective blood-brain barrier. The study investigates the role of fatty acid synthase (FASN), an enzyme that is found to be elevated in breast cancer brain metastasis. By repurposing FDA-approved proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), the research aims to inhibit FASN activity and enhance the effectiveness of existing cancer treatments. Patients may benefit from a novel approach that combines these inhibitors with standard therapies to improve outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer patients who have developed metastasis in the brain, particularly those with triple-negative breast cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with breast cancer that has not metastasized to the brain or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for breast cancer patients with brain metastasis, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting FASN with repurposed drugs, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Toledo, United States
- University of Toledo Health Sci Campus — Toledo, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Jian-Ting — University of Toledo Health Sci Campus
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Jian-Ting
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.