Targeting the CD73 protein in triple-negative breast cancer
Targeting posttranslational modifications of CD73 in TNBCs
['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11303261
This project explores whether changing how the protein CD73 is removed from cancer cells can help the immune system fight triple-negative breast cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11303261 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will study how the protein CD73 is controlled inside triple-negative breast cancer cells and how that control affects the immune response. They will focus on a molecule called TRIM21 that tags CD73 for breakdown and use cell co-cultures and animal models to see what happens when CD73 is stabilized or lowered. The team will measure levels of adenosine in the tumor environment and how well CD8+ T cells can expand and attack tumor cells. The goal is to find strategies that could make chemotherapy and immunotherapy work better by reducing CD73-driven immune suppression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with triple-negative breast cancer, especially those whose tumors show high CD73 levels, would be the most relevant candidates for future related trials.
Not a fit: Patients with non–triple-negative breast cancer or tumors that do not rely on CD73-driven suppression are less likely to benefit from therapies based on this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that lower CD73 to boost immune attack on tumors and reduce resistance to chemo and immunotherapy in triple-negative breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Laboratory and early clinical work targeting CD73 signaling has shown promise for improving anti-tumor immunity, but targeting the protein's regulation via TRIM21 is a newer, largely preclinical approach.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- EMORY UNIVERSITY — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WAN, YONG — EMORY UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WAN, YONG
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: Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Cell, Breast Cancer Treatment, Breast Cancer therapy