Understanding how breast cancer cells grow without estrogen

Mechanism of estrogen independent proliferation in ER+ breast cancer cells

NIH-funded research Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope · NIH-10909954

This study is looking into how some breast cancer cells can grow without needing estrogen, which could help doctors find better treatments for patients with early-stage breast cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Duarte, United States)
Project IDNIH-10909954 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind the growth of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells that do not rely on estrogen for proliferation. By analyzing tumor biopsies and using advanced profiling techniques, the study aims to identify how certain pathways, like the JNK MAPK pathway, contribute to cancer cell resistance against treatments. The researchers will explore the interactions between cell cycle regulators and estrogen signaling to better understand how these tumors can reactivate and proliferate despite therapy. This could lead to more effective treatment strategies for patients with early-stage breast cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with early-stage estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer or those at advanced stages may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with early-stage estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that combining CDK inhibitors with endocrine therapy can improve outcomes in metastatic breast cancer, suggesting potential for success in earlier stages.

Where this research is happening

Duarte, 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 PatientCancer Control
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.