Understanding how nerve growth affects triple-negative breast cancer spread

Dissecting the Role of TRPV1 in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Innervation

NIH-funded research Tufts University Boston · NIH-10994494

This study is looking at how nerves in the body might help triple-negative breast cancer spread, and it aims to find ways to slow down that spread to help patients feel better and live longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTufts University Boston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10994494 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of sensory nerves in the spread of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a particularly aggressive form of breast cancer. The study aims to uncover how increased nerve innervation in tumors contributes to metastasis, which is the spread of cancer to other parts of the body. By examining the TRPV1 channel on sensory nerves, the researchers hope to identify mechanisms that could be targeted to reduce cancer spread and improve patient outcomes. The approach includes co-culturing TNBC cells with sensory neurons to analyze changes in nerve growth and cancer cell behavior.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer who may benefit from novel therapeutic strategies targeting nerve interactions.

Not a fit: Patients with non-triple-negative breast cancer subtypes or those without significant nerve involvement may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce the spread of triple-negative breast cancer, potentially improving survival rates for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting nerve interactions in cancer can influence tumor behavior, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.