Understanding how HER2+ breast cancer spreads to the brain and how to stop it
Uncovering the Molecular Determinants of Metastatic Recurrence and Impaired NK Cell Function
This research aims to discover why HER2-positive breast cancer cells sometimes hide in the brain and then grow into new tumors, and how we might prevent this from happening.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126672 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our team is looking into how HER2-positive breast cancer cells can survive in the brain without immediately forming new tumors, a state we call 'latent' or 'dormant.' We've found that these hidden cells have special characteristics, like stem cell features, and can avoid the body's immune system. We are focusing on a protein called AXL, which appears to be very important in these dormant and spreading brain tumor cells, and another protein, WRNIP1, that interacts with AXL. By understanding these proteins, we hope to find new ways to target and eliminate these cells before they cause serious problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is most relevant for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer, especially those who have experienced or are at high risk for brain metastasis.
Not a fit: Patients without HER2-positive breast cancer or those whose cancer has not spread to the brain may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that prevent HER2+ breast cancer from spreading to the brain or effectively treat existing brain metastases.
How similar studies have performed: This project uses innovative approaches and novel preclinical models to explore a complex problem, building on existing knowledge but venturing into new areas of understanding.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Malladi, Srinivas — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Malladi, Srinivas
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.