Targeting a specific enzyme to treat triple-negative breast cancer

RNase H2 is a novel therapeutic target in triple negative breast cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR · NIH-10861070

This study is looking at how triple-negative breast cancer cells handle stress when they’re rapidly growing, and it found that blocking a specific enzyme called RNase H2 can help kill these cancer cells without harming normal breast cells, which could lead to new treatments just for people with this type of cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10861070 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells cope with high levels of replication stress, which is a challenge for their survival. The team has identified that the enzyme RNase H2 plays a crucial role in helping these cancer cells manage this stress. By using innovative cell models and bioinformatics, they discovered that inhibiting RNase H2 can selectively kill TNBC cells while sparing normal breast cells. This approach could lead to new treatment strategies specifically for patients with TNBC.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of breast cancer or those without breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a targeted therapy for patients with triple-negative breast cancer, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Breast Cancer Cell, Breast Cancer Prevention, Breast Cancer Treatment, Breast Cancer cell line

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.