Understanding how certain genes help maintain breast cell identity and prevent cancer.
Project 1: Mitotic Gene Bookmarking as an Epigenetic Mechanism to Maintain the Mammary Epithelial Phenotype
This study is looking at how a protein called RUNX1 helps keep breast cells healthy and stops them from turning into cancer cells, which could help us understand more about how breast cancer develops.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Burlington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11074067 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific transcription factor, RUNX1, in maintaining the identity of mammary epithelial cells and preventing their transformation into cancerous cells. By examining how RUNX1 bookmarks genes during cell division, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is a critical process in cancer development. The researchers will use advanced molecular and genomic techniques to explore how disruptions in this process may lead to breast cancer progression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk for developing breast cancer due to genetic factors.
Not a fit: Patients with non-epithelial cancers or those without a family history of breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating breast cancer by targeting the mechanisms that maintain normal breast cell identity.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding gene regulation in cancer, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Burlington, United States
- University of Vermont & St Agric College — Burlington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stein, Gary S. — University of Vermont & St Agric College
- Study coordinator: Stein, Gary S.
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.