Understanding how certain cells change in basal-like breast cancer

A premalignant chronology of cell-state variability in basal-like breast cancer

NIH-funded research University of Virginia · NIH-11004984

This study is looking at how certain changes in cells can lead to a type of breast cancer that affects many African American women, using a special mouse model to better understand the early signs of this disease and how it interacts with the immune system.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Virginia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11004984 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the early changes in cell states that lead to basal-like breast cancer, particularly in African American women. By using a unique mouse model, researchers aim to visualize and analyze the progression of premalignant lesions in the mammary gland. The study focuses on the genetic factors involved, specifically the loss of tumor suppressor genes BRCA1 and TP53, and how these changes affect immune responses in the body. The goal is to uncover the cellular and molecular transitions that contribute to the development of this aggressive cancer subtype.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include African American women who are at risk for or have a family history of breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with other subtypes of breast cancer or those without a genetic predisposition may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potentially new strategies for preventing or treating basal-like breast cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using genetically engineered models is established, the specific focus on basal-like breast cancer and the methods employed in this research are relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, 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.
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.