Understanding how PlexinB2 affects tumor cell clusters in cancer
Official title: Novel functions of PlexinB2 in circulating tumor cell clusters
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11167343 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called PlexinB2 affects the way tumor cells from triple-negative breast cancer interact with the immune system, with the hope of finding new ways to stop cancer from spreading and improve treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | February 21, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $545,983 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA298232-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11167343 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer who are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of breast cancer or those not diagnosed with cancer may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of PlexinB2 in the interactions between circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and the immune system, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). By examining how these tumor cells cluster and interact with immune cells, the study aims to uncover new strategies to prevent cancer metastasis. The approach combines computational analysis of proteins, tumor-specific expression data, and clinical outcomes to identify key molecular regulators. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments targeting these interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively prevent the spread of aggressive breast cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting tumor-immune interactions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Huiping — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Liu, Huiping
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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.