Targeting MDA-9 to control breast cancer growth and spread
Modulating growth, progression and metastasis in breast cancer by inhibiting MDA-9
This project aims to find new ways to stop triple-negative breast cancer from growing and spreading by focusing on a specific protein called MDA-9.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11167588 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
For patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, current treatments often fall short. This project explores a new approach by targeting a protein called MDA-9, which appears to play a role in how cancer cells spread. Researchers have developed a special inhibitor, PDZ1i, that has shown promise in mouse models by preventing metastasis and making tumors more responsive to chemotherapy. The goal is to understand how PDZ1i works and to prepare it for potential use in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer might eventually benefit from therapies developed through this research.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or other cancer types are not the primary focus of this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new combination therapies that effectively stop the spread and growth of advanced triple-negative breast cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies in mouse models have shown that inhibiting MDA-9 prevents metastasis and improves chemotherapy effectiveness, supporting this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fisher, Paul B — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Fisher, Paul B
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.