Understanding the variety of breast cancer tumors using advanced mouse models

Visualizing tumor heterogeneity in an immune intact and autochthonous mouse model of breast cancer

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11023144

This study is looking at how different genes in breast cancer work by using special mice that act like humans, so we can better understand how tumors grow and respond to treatments, especially for patients with aggressive breast cancers linked to the HER2 gene.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11023144 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how different genetic variations in breast cancer can be modeled using specially designed mice that mimic human conditions. By using a unique system called Cancer rainbow, the study aims to visualize and analyze the complexity of tumor genetics and their interactions with the immune system. This approach allows researchers to track how tumors evolve and respond to treatments, providing insights that could lead to better therapies for breast cancer patients. The study focuses on the HER2 gene, which is often involved in aggressive breast cancers, and aims to improve our understanding of its role in tumor diversity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research are breast cancer patients, particularly those with HER2-positive tumors or those facing treatment resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with non-breast cancer conditions or those whose tumors do not express HER2 may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for breast cancer by providing a better understanding of tumor behavior and resistance mechanisms.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using genetically modified mouse models to study cancer, but the specific approach of the Cancer rainbow model is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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 ModelBreast Cancer Patient
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.