Understanding how harsh conditions affect breast cancer cell survival and evolution
Ecology and Evolution of Breast Carcinogenesis
This study looks at how early breast cancer cells change and adapt when they face tough conditions, like not having enough oxygen or nutrients, to better understand how these changes might help the cancer grow and spread.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10925286 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how early breast cancer cells adapt to challenging environments, such as low oxygen and nutrient deprivation, which they encounter as they grow. By examining the changes in these cells, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to permanent adaptations, known as hardwired phenotypes, that can influence cancer progression. The researchers utilize advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze the genetic and epigenetic changes in breast epithelial cells under stress. This approach helps to identify how these adaptations contribute to the cancer's ability to spread and worsen.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, particularly those with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
Not a fit: Patients with advanced-stage breast cancer or those who do not have a diagnosis related to the study's focus 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 allow cancer cells to thrive in harsh conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the microenvironment's role in cancer cell adaptation can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Stony Brook, United States
- State University New York Stony Brook — Stony Brook, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Damaghi, Mehdi — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Damaghi, Mehdi
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.