Understanding how a specific protein affects breast cancer growth
Mechanisms of Variant ER-alpha Function in Breast Cancer
This study is looking at how a specific part of the estrogen receptor can help breast cancer grow, even without the hormone that usually activates it, and it aims to find new ways to improve treatments for patients who are struggling with therapy resistance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11134410 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of estrogen receptor-alpha (ER) in breast cancer, particularly how it can promote tumor growth even without its usual activating hormone. The study focuses on the phosphorylation of ER, which may lead to resistance against current therapies. By analyzing the interactions of phosphorylated ER with other proteins, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms that contribute to therapy resistance in breast cancer patients. This could lead to the development of more effective treatment strategies for those affected by this disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer patients, particularly those whose tumors express estrogen receptor-alpha and exhibit resistance to standard therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with breast cancer that does not express estrogen receptor-alpha or those who are not experiencing therapy resistance may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for breast cancer patients who currently face therapy resistance.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in targeting estrogen receptor pathways in breast cancer, but this specific approach focusing on phosphorylation and its effects on therapy resistance is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fowler, Amy — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Fowler, Amy
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.