Understanding how a specific protein affects the movement of a microRNA in breast cancer cells

Mechanism of Lupus La:miR-122 ribonucleoprotein sorting into breast cancer-derived exosomes

NIH-funded research University of California Berkeley · NIH-10906030

This study is looking at how a protein related to lupus affects a tiny molecule that breast cancer cells use to communicate with each other, which could help us understand how the cancer spreads and lead to new treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Berkeley NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Berkeley, United States)
Project IDNIH-10906030 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the Lupus La protein influences the sorting of a microRNA called miR-122 into exosomes released by breast cancer cells. Exosomes are tiny vesicles that carry important molecular information between cells, and this study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind their formation and function in cancer progression. By examining the role of miR-122 in promoting breast cancer metastasis, the research seeks to provide insights into how cancer cells communicate and adapt in the body. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of breast cancer biology and potential new therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with metastatic disease.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those without breast cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating breast cancer metastasis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of exosomes and microRNAs in cancer, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Berkeley, 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.
Conditions Breast CancerBreast Cancer CellBreast Cancer cell lineCancer Biology
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.