The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has been awarded a $204,295 federal Project Grant from the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Detection and Diagnosis Research program (CFDA 93.394). The goal of this 2-year project is to integrate advanced molecular imaging techniques, including PET/MRI, to quantify heterogeneity of HER2 expression and vasculature in HER2-positive breast-to-brain metastases. This translational research aims to provide personalized, non-invasive approaches to predict and guide response to combination treatments, including targeted therapies and radiation, for this patient population with brain metastases. The project will focus on two key objectives: 1) quantifying HER2 expression and vasculature to assess bioavailability of the targeted therapy trastuzumab, and 2) evaluating intratumoral heterogeneity and discordance of HER2 levels across metastatic lesions. This research is expected to improve treatment strategies and outcomes for individuals with HER2-positive breast cancer that has metastasized to the brain.
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