Targeting the tumor environment in patients with aggressive breast cancer to prevent relapse
Therapeutic targeting of the tumor microenvironment in triple negative breast cancer patients at high risk of relapse and preclinical models of lung metastases
This study is looking at how a drug called tetrathiomolybdate can help people with triple negative breast cancer by lowering copper levels in the body, which might stop the cancer from spreading, and it will involve patients taking this drug along with their usual treatments to see if it helps prevent the cancer from coming back.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lebanon, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11051483 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving outcomes for patients with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) by targeting the tumor microenvironment that supports cancer spread. The approach involves using a drug called tetrathiomolybdate (TM) to deplete copper levels, which is believed to disrupt processes that allow cancer cells to invade and metastasize. The study will include a small phase Ib trial where patients will receive TM alongside standard treatments to assess its effectiveness in preventing cancer relapse. Patients will be monitored for changes in specific biomarkers and overall health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer who are at high risk of relapse.
Not a fit: Patients with non-triple negative breast cancer or those who are not at high risk for relapse may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of cancer relapse in patients with triple negative breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches, particularly in reducing relapse rates in high-risk breast cancer patients.
Where this research is happening
Lebanon, United States
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic — Lebanon, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vahdat, Linda Theresa — Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic
- Study coordinator: Vahdat, Linda Theresa
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.