Targeting MUC1-C in triple-negative breast cancer
Targeting the MUC1-C Oncoprotein in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
['FUNDING_R01'] · DANA-FARBER CANCER INST · NIH-11299529
Testing therapies that block the MUC1-C protein to help people with advanced or treatment-resistant triple-negative breast cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DANA-FARBER CANCER INST (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11299529 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This work focuses on a protein in TNBC cells called MUC1-C that helps tumors resist therapy and hide from the immune system. Scientists created an antibody called 3D1 that binds the MUC1-C extracellular domain and are developing it both as an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) and as a targeting agent for allogeneic CAR T cells. The CAR T approach has progressed into early clinical testing and the ADC program is moving toward regulatory (IND-enabling) studies. The overall goal is to kill cancer cells that drive recurrence, reverse DNA-damage resistance, and improve immune control of TNBC.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with triple-negative breast cancer, especially those with advanced, recurrent, or metastatic disease and tumors that express MUC1-C, would be the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: Patients whose tumors do not express MUC1-C or who are medically ineligible for early-phase immunotherapy or cell‑therapy trials may not benefit from these specific approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these approaches could provide new treatment options that overcome resistance and shrink tumors in people with advanced triple-negative breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical results are strong and early clinical programs using MUC1-C–directed CAR T cells and ADCs have begun, showing promising early progress but not yet proven long-term benefit.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- DANA-FARBER CANCER INST — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KUFE, DONALD W. — DANA-FARBER CANCER INST
- Study coordinator: KUFE, DONALD W.
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.
Conditions: Anti-Cancer Agents, Breast Cancer Cell, Breast Cancer Patient