Understanding how tumors and immune cells evolve together to explain racial differences in breast cancer outcomes
Tumor and immune cell co-evolutionary dynamics as a source of racial disparities in breast cancer
This study is looking at how breast cancer tumors and immune cells interact in women of African ancestry to understand why they often face tougher challenges with the disease, even though their immune systems are strong, and it aims to find ways to improve outcomes for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Buffalo, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10673001 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between tumor cells and immune cells in breast cancer, particularly focusing on women of African ancestry. It aims to understand why Black women experience more aggressive breast tumors and worse survival rates compared to White women, despite having a stronger immune response. By analyzing tumor and blood samples, the study will explore how immune cells may influence tumor behavior and contribute to disparities in cancer outcomes. The research employs advanced techniques to assess immune cell infiltration and genetic diversity within tumors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Black women diagnosed with breast cancer who are willing to provide tumor and blood samples.
Not a fit: Patients who are not of African ancestry or those with non-malignant breast conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for breast cancer that address racial disparities in outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining tumor-immune cell co-evolution in this context is novel, previous studies have shown that immune cell presence can significantly impact cancer outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Buffalo, United States
- Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp — Buffalo, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Omilian, Angela — Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp
- Study coordinator: Omilian, Angela
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.