Using a small molecule to improve breast cancer treatment by targeting the tumor environment
Official title: Targeting breast cancer microenvironment with small molecule agonist of relaxin receptor
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-10800772 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new treatment that uses a special molecule to help make breast cancer therapies work better by changing the area around the tumor, which can help the immune system fight the cancer more effectively and reduce resistance to treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | March 3, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $199,856 |
| NIH project number | 7R21CA270712-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10800772 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer who may benefit from novel therapeutic approaches targeting the tumor microenvironment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-breast cancer types or those who are not eligible for experimental treatments may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a small molecule that activates the relaxin receptor can enhance breast cancer treatment by modifying the tumor microenvironment. The study focuses on overcoming barriers created by fibrous tissue that protect cancer cells and promote their growth. By using a compound called ML290, which has shown promise in animal models, the research aims to reduce drug resistance in cancer cells and improve immune response against tumors. Patients may benefit from a more effective treatment option that targets the underlying issues in the tumor environment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective breast cancer treatments that improve patient outcomes by reducing tumor resistance to therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that targeting the tumor microenvironment can enhance cancer treatment effectiveness, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Agoulnik, Irina — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Agoulnik, Irina
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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.