Understanding how breast cancer spreads using a key cell factor called SOX9
Role of SOX9 mammary stem cell factor in metastasis
This work explores how a specific factor in breast cancer cells, called SOX9, helps cancer spread to new parts of the body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126045 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into how breast cancer cells, especially a small group with stem-like properties, manage to travel and grow in new locations. Our focus is on a protein called SOX9, which seems to play a big role in these stem-like cancer cells and their ability to spread. By understanding the exact ways SOX9 helps these cells survive and grow in distant organs, we hope to find new ways to stop cancer from spreading. This knowledge could lead to better treatments for patients facing metastatic breast cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients with breast cancer, particularly those at risk for or experiencing metastasis.
Not a fit: Patients without breast cancer or those whose cancer does not involve the SOX9 pathway may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could uncover new targets for therapies to prevent or treat breast cancer metastasis, which is a major challenge in cancer care.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has identified SOX9 as a key regulator in stemness and metastasis, suggesting this approach builds on existing promising findings.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Wenjun — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Guo, Wenjun
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.