Understanding how MDC1 affects estrogen receptor function in lobular breast cancer

MDC1: central regulator of estrogen receptor function and therapy response in lobular carcinoma

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-10892198

This study is looking at how a protein called MDC1 affects estrogen receptors in invasive lobular carcinoma, a type of breast cancer, to find out why some patients don’t respond well to anti-estrogen treatments, with the hope of discovering better ways to help them.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10892198 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of MDC1, a protein involved in DNA damage response, in the functioning of estrogen receptors in invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), a specific type of breast cancer. The study aims to uncover why patients with ILC often have poor responses to anti-estrogen therapies, despite the expectation of good outcomes based on their cancer's characteristics. By examining the unique biology of ILC and how MDC1 interacts with estrogen receptors, the research seeks to identify new treatment strategies that could improve patient outcomes. The approach includes analyzing ILC cell models to understand the mechanisms of resistance to current therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with invasive lobular carcinoma who are currently undergoing or considering anti-estrogen therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of breast cancer or those who do not have invasive lobular carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with invasive lobular carcinoma, enhancing their response to therapies.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of MDC1 in ILC is being explored, similar research has shown promise in understanding estrogen receptor function in other breast cancer subtypes, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Breast Cancer, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.