Targeting a specific gene to improve breast cancer immunotherapy
Official title: Targeting FOXP3 mRNA splicing for breast cancer immunotherapy
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10894830 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changing a specific part of the FOXP3 gene might make immunotherapy work better for people with breast cancer, using a special drug to help boost the immune system's fight against tumors in mice, which could lead to improved treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | July 27, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $555,952 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA282917-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894830 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with breast cancer who may benefit from enhanced immunotherapy treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-breast cancer types or those who do not respond to immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how modifying the FOXP3 gene can enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy for breast cancer. By focusing on a specific isoform of the FOXP3 gene, the study aims to improve the immune response against tumors. The approach involves using a morpholino drug to promote the desired gene expression in tumor environments, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients. The research utilizes mouse models to assess the impact of these modifications on tumor growth and immune cell activity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapy options for breast cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting gene splicing for cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Baohua — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Baohua
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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LncRNA EPIC1 and EZH2: a strategy to overcome breast cancer immunotherapy resistance
A breast cancer research project is exploring whether a long noncoding RNA called EPIC1 helps tumors dodge immune therapy and if an EZH2 inhibitor can boost treatment responses.
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.