NIH-funded research R21 grant

Using mitochondrial DNA to improve early detection and predict recurrence of triple-negative breast cancer in African American women

Official title: Mitochondrial DNA in extracellular vesicles for early detection and recurrence prediction in triple negative breast cancer racial disparity

Funded at University of South Alabama · NIH-11138445 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how tiny pieces of DNA from your cells can help find triple-negative breast cancer earlier and predict if it might come back, especially for African American women, so that doctors can offer better screenings and personalized treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Alabama
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Mobile, United States)
Project startJuly 13, 2024
Project endJanuary 31, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$192,500
NIH project number5R21MD019400-02
Project IDNIH-11138445 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are African American women diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have triple-negative breast cancer or are not of African American descent may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of mitochondrial DNA found in extracellular vesicles to enhance early detection and predict recurrence of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), particularly focusing on the disparities faced by African American women. The study aims to identify specific mitochondrial genetic alterations that may contribute to the higher rates of recurrence and metastasis in this population. By analyzing blood samples for these biomarkers, the research seeks to develop a non-invasive method for monitoring cancer progression. Patients may benefit from improved screening and personalized treatment strategies based on their mitochondrial DNA profiles.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and better management of triple-negative breast cancer in African American women, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using mitochondrial DNA as biomarkers in cancer detection, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of South Alabama
    Mobile, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Dasgupta, Santanu — University of South Alabama
  • Study coordinator: Dasgupta, Santanu

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.