Targeting FOXP3 mRNA splicing to boost breast cancer immunotherapy
Official title: Targeting FOXP3 mRNA splicing for breast cancer immunotherapy
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11364152 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A researcher aims to tailor breast cancer immunotherapy by shifting FOXP3 mRNA splicing to enhance anti-tumor immune responses.
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 | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $585,212 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA282917-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11364152 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates would be individuals with breast cancer where immunotherapy is being considered or studied.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with breast cancer not eligible for immunotherapy trials or those with conditions that contraindicate immune modulation may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project explores how different FOXP3 mRNA splice forms in regulatory T cells affect breast cancer immunity. By using mouse models and bioinformatics, the team identifies how promoting the FOXP3S isoform inside tumors could strengthen anti-tumor T cell activity. They also investigate potential effects on autoimmune or allergic processes to ensure safety. The work includes preclinical experiments with morpholino drugs delivered directly to tumors to test immune responses and tumor control.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to new ways to enhance breast cancer immunotherapy by modulating immune regulation within tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Preclinical data in mice show that FOXP3 isoform shifting can alter tumor growth and immune activity, suggesting potential applicability in humans.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Baohua — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Baohua
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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.