Peterson NIH Grant

From the Peterson’s lab

A recent award (The transcription factor basonuclin-1, a new player in the progression of triple-negative inflammatory breast cancer; NIH-1R16GM159700-01; $591,628; 08/2025-07/2029; 4 years) to Dr. Esther Peterson will her to deepen our understanding of inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). The goal of this proposal is to study the role of a protein called basonuclin-1 (BNC-1), which helps control gene activity, in the development of inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). We’re especially focused on a type of IBC known as “triple-negative,” which is known to be particularly aggressive and difficult to treat. The exact biological processes behind this form of breast cancer are still not fully understood. IBC is known for spreading quickly and forming clumps of cancer cells in the lymph vessels, which helps it spread to other parts of the body.

To learn more, we’ll use advanced lab techniques. We will collect and analyze genetic data and grow cancer cells in 3D cultures to see how BNC-1 may affect the way cancer cells behave and spread. By combining these tools, we also hope to discover new genes or pathways that play a role in IBC.

This research could help confirm whether BNC-1 can serve as a useful marker for diagnosing or tracking the disease and may lead to the development of new treatment strategies. Additionally, the project will offer training opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students.