Using nanoparticle-coated macrophages to target breast cancer spread to the brain
Official title: Nanoparticle-coated macrophages for targeted disruption of YAP/TEAD interactions in breast cancer brain metastasis
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10939097 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with breast cancer that has spread to the brain by using tiny particles to help immune cells fight the cancer more effectively, and it may lead to new treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $411,143 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA291723-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10939097 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer who have developed brain metastases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those without brain metastases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to combat brain metastasis in breast cancer by utilizing nanoparticle-coated macrophages. These specialized immune cells are designed to disrupt the interactions between YAP and TEAD proteins, which are crucial for the growth and survival of cancer cells in the brain. By targeting these interactions, the study aims to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells that have spread to the brain, potentially leading to new treatment options. Patients may be involved in trials that assess the safety and effectiveness of this innovative therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve outcomes for patients with breast cancer that has metastasized to the brain.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting YAP-TEAD interactions is a novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in using similar strategies to inhibit cancer cell growth.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Zongmin — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Zongmin
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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.