Understanding how collagen in breast tissue can predict cancer risk
Official title: Spatial stromal proteomic biosignatures of DCIS risk and progression
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10947791 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain patterns in the collagen of breast tissue can help doctors figure out which women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) might be more likely to develop invasive breast cancer, so they can make better treatment choices and possibly avoid unnecessary surgeries or radiation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | May 20, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $380,057 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA286287-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10947791 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) who are at risk of progression to invasive breast cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with invasive breast cancer or those without a diagnosis of DCIS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a condition that can lead to invasive breast cancer. It aims to identify specific collagen patterns in the breast tissue that may indicate which patients are at higher risk of progression to invasive cancer. By analyzing the molecular composition of collagen surrounding DCIS lesions, the study seeks to develop predictive biosignatures that could help in making more informed treatment decisions, potentially reducing unnecessary surgeries and radiation. The approach involves advanced proteomic techniques to assess the structural properties of collagen in breast tissue samples.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized treatment options for women with DCIS, reducing overtreatment and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using molecular signatures to predict cancer progression, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Angel, Peggi M — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Angel, Peggi M
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.