Targeting USP27X to lower Cyclin D1 in HER2 therapy–resistant breast cancer
The role of USP27X-Cyclin D1 axis in HER2 Therapy Resistant Breast Cancer
This work looks at blocking the protein USP27X to reduce Cyclin D1 and help people with HER2-positive breast cancers that have stopped responding to HER2 drugs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Buffalo, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11295402 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying how the enzyme USP27X keeps Cyclin D1 levels high in HER2-positive breast cancers that resist therapy. In the lab they reduce USP27X and watch whether Cyclin D1 falls and cancer cells become more sensitive to HER2-targeted and CDK4/6 drugs. They use cell models and mouse xenografts and link USP27X levels to patient outcomes to guide target selection. The goal is to find a way to drive Cyclin D1 degradation so tumors that no longer respond to HER2 therapy can be treated more effectively.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with HER2-positive breast cancer that is refractory or recurrent after HER2-targeted therapy, especially those whose tumors show Cyclin D1 (CCND1) amplification or high USP27X expression, would be the likely candidates.
Not a fit: People with non–HER2 breast cancers or tumors without Cyclin D1 overexpression are unlikely to benefit from this targeted approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could restore drug sensitivity and improve treatment options for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer that no longer respond to current HER2 therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Indirect targeting of Cyclin D1 pathways (for example with CDK4/6 inhibitors) has clinical benefit, but directly targeting USP27X is a new, preclinical strategy that has shown promising results in lab and mouse models.
Where this research is happening
Buffalo, United States
- Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp — Buffalo, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Atanassov, Boyko S — Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp
- Study coordinator: Atanassov, Boyko S
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.