Targeting a specific protein to treat aggressive breast cancer
Targeting ULK3 for the treatment of triple negative breast cancer
This study is looking at how triple negative breast cancer cells survive chemotherapy and is trying to find new ways to make treatments work better by focusing on a specific protein, which could help patients who have fewer options for their care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10991664 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), which is known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. The study aims to understand how TNBC cells use a process called autophagy to survive chemotherapy and to identify new therapeutic targets. By investigating a protein called ULK3, which is linked to TNBC aggressiveness, the researchers hope to develop selective inhibitors that can block this survival mechanism. This approach could lead to more effective treatments for patients who currently have limited options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer who have limited treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with other subtypes of breast cancer or those who have already received extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for patients with triple negative breast cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: While targeting autophagy in cancer treatment is a growing area of interest, this specific approach focusing on ULK3 is novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tauro, Marilena — H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst
- Study coordinator: Tauro, Marilena
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.