Targeting UNC45A to enhance immune response against aggressive breast cancer

Suppressing the Co-chaperone UNC45A reprograms the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment to fight Cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · AUGUSTA UNIVERSITY · NIH-11036400

This study is looking at how blocking a protein called UNC45A might help the immune system better fight aggressive breast cancers, like triple-negative breast cancer, with the goal of finding new ways to make current cancer treatments work better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorAUGUSTA UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (AUGUSTA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11036400 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how suppressing the co-chaperone UNC45A can alter the immunosuppressive environment of tumors, particularly in aggressive breast cancer cases like triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). By understanding the role of UNC45A in tumor growth and immune evasion, the study aims to develop new therapeutic strategies that could improve the effectiveness of existing immunotherapies. The approach involves exploring the interactions between tumor cells and immune cells, with a focus on enhancing the immune response to fight cancer more effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with aggressive forms of breast cancer, particularly those with triple-negative breast cancer who have limited treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with non-aggressive breast cancer or those who do not have breast cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with aggressive breast cancer, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting immune checkpoints like PD-L1, indicating that innovative approaches in this area could lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment.

Where this research is happening

AUGUSTA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: aggressive breast cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.