Examining organ aging in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy

Investigating Cellular Senescence and Organ Aging in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Adjuvant Chemotherapy: A Novel Approach Utilizing Organ Specific Age Proteomics

Observational UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center · NCT06789653

This study is trying to see how chemotherapy affects the aging of organs in women with early-stage breast cancer to help identify those who might face more risks during treatment.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages22 Years to 66 Years
SexFemale
SponsorUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Chapel Hill, North Carolina)
Trial IDNCT06789653 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the changes in P16INK4A expression and plasma proteomic signatures in women with early-stage breast cancer before and after receiving adjuvant chemotherapy. It aims to assess whether biological and accelerated immune aging, evaluated through T cells from peripheral blood, reflects aging in various organs. By comparing baseline characteristics with organ aging, the study seeks to identify patients at higher risk for chemotherapy-related complications, particularly those receiving regimens that include anthracyclines and taxanes. The findings could inform treatment adjustments to mitigate risks associated with chemotherapy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 22 to 65 diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer who are receiving adjuvant chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to provide consent or are enrolled in hospice care may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help identify patients at risk for chemotherapy complications, leading to tailored treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that proteomic measures can predict aging and associated risks, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥22years and \<66 years
* Diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer (The American Joint Committee on Cancer stages I-III).
* Understand and read English.
* Receive care at the study site.
* Able to understand and participate in study procedures for length of study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unable to provide consent, unable to communicate verbally.
* Unable to understand or read English.
* Enrolled in hospice care.

Where this trial is running

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Breast Cancerproteomicplasma proteomicP16INK4AchemotherapyT cellsagingmorbidity
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.