Understanding how NF1 gene changes affect hormone-driven breast cancer
Loss of NF1 drives hormone dependent mammary carcinogenesis in a rat model with intact immune system
This project explores how changes in a gene called NF1 contribute to hormone-sensitive breast cancer, aiming to find better ways to help patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11112550 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that changes in the NF1 gene are common in breast cancer and can lead to more aggressive disease and resistance to treatments. This project uses advanced rat models that closely mimic human breast cancer, including specific genetic changes found in patients. By studying these models, we hope to understand how NF1 changes interact with hormones to drive cancer growth and resistance to current therapies. Our goal is to uncover new ways to treat breast cancer, especially for those whose tumors are resistant to hormone-blocking medicines.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for breast cancer patients, especially those with hormone receptor-positive tumors and NF1 gene mutations.
Not a fit: Patients without breast cancer or those whose cancer is not related to NF1 gene changes or hormone sensitivity may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatment strategies for breast cancer patients, particularly those with NF1 gene changes and hormone-resistant tumors.
How similar studies have performed: While NF1's role in cancer is known, its specific interaction with estrogen receptors and hormone-dependent breast cancer resistance is a more recent and less explored area.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wallis-Schultz, Deeann — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Wallis-Schultz, Deeann
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.