NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how certain immune cells fight breast cancer

Official title: Mechanism of double-negative T cells in antitumor immunity to breast cancer

Funded at Washington State University · NIH-10914934 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain immune cells can help boost the body's defense against aggressive breast cancer, especially triple-negative breast cancer, and hopes to find new ways to improve treatment for patients facing this tough diagnosis.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington State University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pullman, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2028
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$335,119
NIH project number5R01CA276284-02
Project IDNIH-10914934 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer.

Less likely to help

Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those with non-triple-negative breast cancer subtypes may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of double-negative T cells in enhancing the immune response against breast cancer, particularly in its most aggressive form, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). By using a specific mouse model, the study aims to explore how transferring certain immune cells can inhibit tumor growth. The approach focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind these immune cells and their potential to improve cancer immunotherapy outcomes for patients. If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating patients with advanced breast cancer.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new immunotherapy options that significantly improve treatment outcomes for breast cancer patients.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in utilizing immune cells for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • Washington State University
    Pullman, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Zhang, Hui — Washington State University
  • Study coordinator: Zhang, Hui

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.