Targeting mitochondrial metabolism to treat breast cancer
Mitochondrial metabolism as a target of breast cancer therapy
This study is looking for new ways to treat aggressive breast cancer, especially in African-American veterans, by finding special compounds that can help stop cancer cells from growing while being gentle on healthy cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baltimore VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11026339 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates new therapeutic approaches for breast cancer, particularly focusing on metastatic forms that are more common in African-American veterans. It aims to identify small molecules that can disrupt cancer cell metabolism by targeting mitochondrial respiration, which is crucial for the survival of certain aggressive breast cancer types. The study employs computer-assisted drug design to discover compounds that can inhibit cancer cell growth while minimizing toxicity to normal cells. By understanding how these drugs affect cancer cells, the research seeks to develop safer and more effective treatments for patients with limited options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women with metastatic breast cancer, particularly those who are African-American veterans.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those who do not have metastatic disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, safer therapies for metastatic breast cancer, improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting mitochondrial metabolism in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Baltimore VA Medical Center — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Passaniti, Antonino — Baltimore VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Passaniti, Antonino
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.