Understanding how whole genome duplication affects cancer progression and drug resistance

Causes and Consequences of Whole Genome Duplication in Cancer Progression and Acquired Drug Resistance

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10994646

This study is looking at how a process called whole genome duplication affects cancer, especially how it can make cancer cells unstable and resistant to treatments, so that patients can better understand why their cancer might change and become harder to treat.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10994646 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of whole genome duplication (WGD) in cancer, particularly focusing on how it contributes to chromosomal instability and drug resistance. By utilizing advanced biosensors and imaging techniques, the study aims to observe individual cancer cells over time to understand the mechanisms behind WGD. The researchers are particularly interested in how stress conditions and chemotherapy can trigger WGD, which may lead to worse outcomes in cancers like metastatic Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Patients may gain insights into how their cancer evolves and becomes resistant to treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with metastatic Triple Negative Breast Cancer or other cancers exhibiting drug resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers or those not experiencing drug resistance may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for treating cancers that exhibit drug resistance due to whole genome duplication.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding genomic changes in cancer can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Breast CancerBreast Cancer Cellcancer cell
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.