Using estrogen manipulation to treat various cancers
Official title: Manipulating normal estrogen physiology as a therapeutic approach in cancer
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11012791 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how adjusting the way estrogen works in the body might help treat breast cancer and other types of cancer by boosting the immune system's ability to fight tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | February 7, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $542,002 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA276089-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012791 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with breast cancer or other non-reproductive cancers who may benefit from hormone-targeted therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that are not influenced by estrogen or those who do not have hormone-responsive tumors may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how manipulating normal estrogen physiology can serve as a therapeutic approach for treating different types of cancer, particularly focusing on breast cancer and other non-reproductive cancers. The study examines the role of estrogens in creating an immune-suppressive environment that can hinder T cell activation and contribute to tumor growth. By understanding the complex interactions between sex hormones and cancer pathology, the research aims to identify new treatment strategies that could enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve cancer treatment outcomes by targeting estrogen pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating hormone pathways for cancer treatment, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdonnell, Donald P — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Mcdonnell, Donald P
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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.