High-throughput screening to identify inhibitors of breast-to-brain metastasis

National Center For Advancing Translational Sciences

Investigators

Abstract

This project seeks to identify and develop small molecules that target breast-to-brain metastasis. 15-30% of women with stage IV breast cancer develop brain metastases, which negatively impacts life expectancy and quality of life. Small molecule chemotherapeutics that target these metastatic cells are of interest, however, there are a limited number of in vitro models available to identify and develop such therapeutic candidates. This collaborative project will pursue high-throughput screening, using novel in vitro models, to identify small molecules that target metastatic breast-to-brain cells. During this period, the team focused on design, optimization, and implementation of a high-throughput screening amenable assay using breast-to-brain metastatic cells.