Why breast cancer cells switch their cell-cycle paths
Molecular basis of cell-cycle plasticity and robustness
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO · NIH-11168834
This project looks at how breast cancer cells find new ways to keep dividing when treated with drugs that block the cell cycle.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11168834 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team will study breast cancer cells in lab models to map how they change the order and timing of cell-cycle steps when exposed to drugs. They will follow key proteins such as CDK2, CDK4/6, Rb, and E2F to see which backup routes cancer cells turn on to escape drug effects. The researchers will test drug combinations in cell lines and in patient-derived samples or animal models to try to block those alternative routes. Their aim is to identify strategies that prevent cells from rewiring their cycle and becoming resistant.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with breast cancer—especially those receiving CDK-targeting drugs or who have developed resistance—would be the most relevant candidates to donate samples or join related future trials.
Not a fit: Patients without breast cancer or whose tumors do not depend on cell-cycle pathways are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to drug combinations or approaches that prevent or delay resistance to CDK-targeting therapies in breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: CDK4/6 inhibitors have improved outcomes for many patients with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer, but resistance commonly develops and strategies to block cell-cycle rewiring remain experimental.
Where this research is happening
Boulder, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO — Boulder, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SPENCER, SABRINA LEIGH — UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO
- Study coordinator: SPENCER, SABRINA LEIGH
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 Treatment