Using PET imaging to understand glutamine metabolism in triple-negative breast cancer

PET Imaging of Glutamine Metabolism and Glutamate Transport to Guide Metabolically Targeted Therapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11082216

This study is looking at how a substance called glutamine affects triple-negative breast cancer to find better ways to treat it, using special imaging to see how much glutamine is in the cancer cells and helping doctors choose the best therapies for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11082216 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how glutamine metabolism affects triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and aims to improve treatment strategies. By utilizing PET imaging, the study will measure the levels of glutamine and glutamate in cancer cells, which are crucial for their growth and survival. The researchers will develop new imaging markers to better select patients for therapies targeting glutaminolysis, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of existing treatments. The approach combines advanced imaging techniques with metabolic insights to guide personalized therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer who may be resistant to standard treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with non-triple-negative breast cancer or those who are not eligible for metabolic-targeted therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with triple-negative breast cancer by identifying those who would benefit most from specific therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer research

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.