Understanding how breast cancer cells use glutamine to spread to bones
Official title: Elucidating Glutamine Metabolism in Breast to Bone Metastasis
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-10994964 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how breast cancer cells use a nutrient called glutamine to spread to bones and cause problems, with the hope of finding new ways to help patients avoid bone damage and improve treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $34,370 |
| NIH project number | 1F31CA294618-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994964 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, particularly those experiencing bone metastasis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those without bone involvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of glutamine metabolism in the spread of breast cancer to bones, a common and serious complication for many patients. The study focuses on how breast cancer cells that target bones utilize glutamine, a nutrient, to thrive and cause bone destruction. By using genetically modified mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind this process and explore potential therapeutic strategies to limit bone damage and tumor growth. The findings could lead to new treatments that target these metabolic pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that reduce bone metastasis and improve outcomes for breast cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karno, Breelyn a — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Karno, Breelyn a
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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.