Breast Cancer Research Program
The Breast Cancer Program places a strong emphasis on breast epithelial cell and molecular biology, basic science-driven translational and clinical research, and molecular epidemiology. Program members conduct research across a variety of disciplines and research focus areas, including: cellular signaling and molecular biology; breast pathology; genomic profiling; biomedical informatics; medical, surgical, and radiation oncology; clinical trial design; epidemiology; and supportive care studies.
RESEARCH THEMES
The Breast Cancer Program has expertise in and leads clinical trials related to:
ER-Positive Breast Cancer
Identifying the role of PI3K inhibitors in resistance to antiestrogens in ER+ breast cancer
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Molecular sub-classification of triple negative breast cancer and discovery of novel treatment targets
Non-Invasive Imaging
Evaluating non-invasive imaging technologies to predict anti-cancer drug action and treatment response
Breast Development & Disease
Studying the role of ERBB3 in mammary gland development, transformation and adaptive resistance
Cancer Stem Cells
Understanding the role of TGFβ in cancer stem-like behavior and tumor progression
Disparities & Risk Factors
Investigating obesity as a metabolic marker of breast cancer risk in African Americans
Combatting Resistance
Discovering actionable therapy targets in drug-resistant breast tumors after neoadjuvant therapy
Targeted Therapies
Leading innovative clinical trials with targeted therapies and combinations
Meet the Program Members
The Breast Cancer Research Program has more than 30 members from multiple basic science and clinical departments across Vanderbilt University and Medical Center. Ingrid Mayer, M.D., is the Program Leader and Clinical Director.