Understanding how tumor cells communicate with immune cells in breast cancer
Tumor cell -TAM Paracrine Signaling in Breast Cancer
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in breast cancer, called tumor-associated macrophages, interact with cancer cells and affect how the tumor grows and responds to treatment, with the hope of finding better ways to help patients who aren't getting good results from current therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11042768 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between tumor cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in breast cancer, particularly focusing on how these immune cells influence tumor growth and response to treatment. By studying the tumor microenvironment, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to poor outcomes in patients with high TAM levels. The approach includes analyzing the signaling pathways involved in TAM polarization and their effects on tumor biology, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from insights that could improve treatment options for breast cancer, especially for those who do not respond to current therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with high levels of tumor-associated macrophages.
Not a fit: Patients with non-breast cancer diagnoses or those whose tumors do not involve significant TAM interactions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies for breast cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting tumor-associated macrophages in other cancer types, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yeh, Elizabeth S — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Yeh, Elizabeth S
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.