Using macrophage patterns to predict which DCIS will become invasive breast cancer
Studying macrophage polarization in search for predictive and prognostic markers of breast cancer
['FUNDING_R01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11300992
This work looks at immune cells called macrophages in breast tissue to help identify which women with DCIS are more likely to develop invasive breast cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11300992 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine breast tissue samples from women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) using laboratory methods that work on standard archived (FFPE) tissue. They will identify different macrophage subtypes with newly developed, tissue-compatible markers and map where those cells sit in the tumor microenvironment. Those macrophage patterns will be linked to known clinical outcomes to see which patterns are associated with progression to invasive cancer. The aim is to find immune-related tissue markers that could help guide less aggressive care for low-risk patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) who have archived tumor tissue and documented follow-up would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without DCIS or those already treated for invasive breast cancer are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help doctors distinguish low-risk DCIS that may not need surgery or radiation from high-risk cases that do.
How similar studies have performed: Early work by the team identified macrophage subtypes and markers and supports the approach, but it is still novel and not yet proven to guide clinical care.
Where this research is happening
STANFORD, UNITED STATES
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY — STANFORD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEST, ROBERT B — STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WEST, ROBERT B
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.
Conditions: Breast Cancer, Breast Diseases, Breast Disorder, Cancer Biology, Cancer Treatment