Understanding how a specific protein affects the movement of a microRNA in breast cancer cells
Official title: Mechanism of Lupus La:miR-122 ribonucleoprotein sorting into breast cancer-derived exosomes
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-10906030 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | July 18, 2023 |
| Project end | July 17, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $45,730 |
| NIH project number | 5F31CA284881-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906030 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with metastatic disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those without breast cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ngo, Jordan Matthew — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Ngo, Jordan Matthew
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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.