Understanding how a specific estrogen receptor affects therapy-resistant breast cancer progression

Investigating the role of G-protein coupled estrogen receptor expression on cancer associated fibroblasts in therapy resistant ER+ breast cancer progression

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11080756

This study is looking at how a specific receptor called GPER in certain cells around breast tumors might affect the growth and spread of estrogen receptor positive breast cancer that doesn't respond to treatment, especially in patients who have trouble with tamoxifen.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11080756 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the G-protein coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) in the progression of therapy-resistant estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer. It focuses on how GPER expression in cancer-associated fibroblasts influences the tumor microenvironment and contributes to disease progression and metastasis. The study will utilize both in vitro and in vivo models to explore the mechanisms by which GPER activated fibroblasts affect the extracellular matrix and tumor behavior, particularly in the context of tamoxifen resistance.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with estrogen receptor positive breast cancer who are experiencing or at risk of therapy resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with non-estrogen receptor positive breast cancer or those who have not undergone antihormone therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that overcome resistance in ER+ breast cancer, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of estrogen receptors in breast cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.