Understanding how the environment around breast tumors affects their growth and spread
Official title: Tumor microenvironmental biomarkers of breast cancer invasion
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11048349 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of breast condition called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) can change into invasive breast cancer, focusing on the surrounding environment of the tumor, to help doctors find better ways to predict and treat breast cancer for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | December 13, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $648,428 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA290021-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048349 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or those at high risk for developing invasive breast cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with invasive breast cancer who do not have a history of DCIS may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the transition of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) to invasive breast cancer by examining the tumor microenvironment (TME). It employs a combination of in vivo analyses and in vitro studies to identify and understand the features that contribute to this transition. By analyzing changes in the extracellular matrix and the behavior of immune cells like macrophages and fibroblasts, the research aims to uncover causal factors that could improve predictions for patient outcomes. The findings could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for breast cancer patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for predicting breast cancer progression and more effective treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding tumor microenvironments, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights into breast cancer progression.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: West, Robert B — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: West, Robert B
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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.