Understanding how EYA3 and PP2A contribute to the spread of triple negative breast cancer
Official title: Deciphering the role of EYA3/PP2A in triple negative breast cancer metastasis
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11121618 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called EYA3, which is found in high amounts in triple negative breast cancer, works with another protein, PP2A, to see how they affect cancer spread and the immune system, with the hope of finding new treatment options for this tough-to-treat cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $647,118 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA301267-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11121618 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-triple negative breast cancer subtypes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which EYA3, a protein that is overexpressed in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), interacts with another protein, PP2A, to influence the metastasis of this aggressive cancer type. The study aims to uncover how these proteins affect the immune response and tumor growth, particularly focusing on the tumor microenvironment that can either promote or inhibit immune cell activity. By analyzing these interactions, the research seeks to identify potential new therapeutic targets for TNBC, which currently has limited treatment options due to its unique characteristics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new therapies that specifically target the mechanisms of metastasis in triple negative breast cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar molecular pathways in other cancer types, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results for TNBC as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ford, Heide L. — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Ford, Heide L.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Stable, ultra-tight peptides to block EphB4 and stop TNBC spread
A new peptide-based approach aims to block a cancer molecule called EphB4 to prevent metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer, especially in African American women.
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Understanding how high triglycerides may fuel certain breast cancers
High triglycerides may help triple negative breast cancer grow and spread, and this study looks at how that could happen in patients and models.
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Stopping triple-negative breast cancer spread by targeting EYA3 and PP2A
Researchers are exploring whether blocking the EYA3/PP2A pathway can prevent triple-negative breast cancer from spreading and help the immune system fight the tumor.
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How low PHGDH changes sugar metabolism to help triple‑negative breast cancer spread
This project looks at how low levels of the enzyme PHGDH change sialic acid sugar metabolism in ways that help triple‑negative breast cancer cells spread.
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Stable, ultra‑high affinity peptides that block EphB4 to stop triple‑negative breast cancer from spreading
Designer peptides that latch onto the EphB4 protein are being developed to try to stop triple‑negative breast cancer from spreading, with attention to the higher risk seen in African American women.
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How high triglycerides may help triple negative breast cancer grow and spread
Researchers are looking at whether high blood triglyceride levels make triple negative breast cancer grow and spread faster, which could point to ways to help women with TNBC.
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.