This $105,557 Project Grant award from the National Cancer Institute (CFDA 93.398 - Cancer Research Manpower) supports research by the University of Wisconsin-Madison to investigate the role of G-protein coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) expression on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in therapy-resistant estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer progression.
The research strategy aims to establish the specific impact of GPER-activated CAFs on extracellular matrix (ECM) protein deposition and organization, both in vitro and in an in vivo ER+, tamoxifen-resistant tumor model. This work will be complemented by analysis of a tumor microarray from breast cancer patients to validate the association between GPER expression, ECM signatures, administered therapy, and patient outcomes. The overall goal is to provide novel insights into the mechanisms of antihormone therapy-driven disease progression in ER+ breast cancer and support the career development of the early-career researcher leading the project.
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