Understanding how BRCA1 mutations lead to breast cancer
Mechanisms of transition from pre-malignancy to cancer in the Brca1-mutant breast
This study is looking at how women with BRCA1 mutations might go from having early signs of cancer to actually developing the disease, and it aims to find new ways to prevent cancer that are easier and less painful than current treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11016820 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the transition from pre-malignancy to cancer in women with BRCA1 mutations, focusing on the cellular and molecular changes that occur during this process. Using advanced techniques like single cell RNA sequencing and spatial genomics, the study aims to identify non-genetic factors that contribute to cancer initiation. By examining a specific mouse model, researchers are looking for unique cell types and signaling pathways that could be targeted for new preventive therapies. The goal is to develop less invasive treatment options than the current standard of care, which often involves painful surgeries.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women with deleterious BRCA1 mutations who are at high risk for developing breast cancer.
Not a fit: Patients without BRCA1 mutations or those who have already developed breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies that prevent breast cancer in women with BRCA1 mutations, reducing the need for invasive surgeries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cancer mechanisms in BRCA1 mutation carriers, but this specific approach using single cell analysis is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lawson, Devon a. — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Lawson, Devon a.
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.