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-10977526

This study is looking into how some breast cancer cells that usually need estrogen to grow can keep multiplying even without it, 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-10977526 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind the growth of estrogen receptor positive (ER+) 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 interaction 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 who are undergoing or considering endocrine therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with hormone receptor negative breast cancer or those who are not in the early stages of the disease 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 ER+ breast cancer, potentially increasing their chances of recovery.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in combining CDK inhibitors with endocrine therapy for metastatic breast cancer, indicating potential for success in earlier stages as well.

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.