A diet-based intervention to improve TNBC outcomes

What’s the title of the study?

Identifying targetable vulnerabilities in serine deprived triple negative breast cancer

What’s the project about?

Researchers have previously shown that decreasing the amount of a nutrient called serine in the diets of mice can improve survival in several different types of cancer. However, this doesn’t seem to be as effective for triple negative breast cancer (TBNC), although it slightly reduces the risk of the cancer growing and spreading.  

Now, the researchers are designing a new study which aims to build on these previous results by looking at how a combination of different drugs and changing diet can further improve treatment for TNBC, reduce tumour growth and reduce the risk of it spreading.

They’re looking for patient advocates for join the research team to help shape the design of the study and to inform it as it progresses.

Who can take part?

You can take part if you’ve been affected by breast cancer, either through a personal diagnosis, or that of a loved one or someone you care for.

Why do you want me to be involved?

Whilst the researcher doesn’t directly involve patients, it’s important that the research is guided by people who’ve had direct experience of breast cancer.

By becoming a patient advocate, you’ll ensure that the research is relevant for people with TNBC, and support the end goal of the research to improve the outcomes for patients diagnosed with TNBC.

What will you ask me to do?

The researchers are currently submitting their project for funding.

Initially, you’ll be asked to read their proposal to offer advice on how they can improve the work, or the way they describe it. This can all be done remotely.

If the funding is awarded, the researchers would like to have regular meetings every 6 months or so to discuss the study’s progress and future directions.