Understanding how collagen differences affect breast cancer in African American women

Collagen Sequence Variants in Racial Disparities of Breast Cancer

NIH-funded research Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10881750

This study is looking at how different types of collagen might affect breast cancer, especially in African American women, to help find better ways to predict and prevent aggressive forms of the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical University of South Carolina NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10881750 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of collagen sequence variants in breast cancer, particularly focusing on African American women who experience higher mortality rates despite lower incidence. The study aims to uncover how collagen processing and structure contribute to aggressive forms of breast cancer, such as triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). By examining the ancestry-dependent mechanisms that influence collagen re-alignment, the research seeks to identify potential predictive markers for breast cancer progression and metastasis. This could lead to improved prevention strategies tailored specifically for African American women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American women diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with triple negative breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as African American or those without a breast cancer diagnosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prediction and prevention of breast cancer metastasis in African American women.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of collagen in cancer progression, but this specific focus on racial disparities is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Charleston, 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.
Conditions Breast CancerBreast Cancer Early Detection
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.