Grant: Doctoral Research Award: Canada Graduate Scholarships

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. Among the most aggressive forms of this disease is triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which is challenging to treat effectively. This research study aims to understand how immature red blood cells (called CD71+ erythroid cells or CECs) may help these cancer cells spread and resist treatment. Red blood cells are normally made in the bone marrow, but cancer can cause immature cells to form in other body parts like the spleen and liver. Our research shows that CECs may suppress the immune response, helping cancer cells evade attacks. Moreover, our preliminary findings suggest CECs produce a protein called artemin (ARTN), which may enhance the cancer's ability to grow and resist treatment. The goal of this study is to investigate how CECs and ARTN contribute to the progression of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and to identify potential ways to disrupt their supportive role in the cancer's growth and spread. We will use a mouse model of TNBC to explore three main areas: 1.Investigating CECs' impact on immune cells: We hypothesize that CECs interfere with immune cells' ability to fight cancer, thus aiding tumor growth. We will examine the interactions between these cells to determine how targeting CECs can affect tumor progression. 2.Exploring the transformation of red blood cells: We have observed that some CECs may change into other cell types within the tumor environment, acquiring even stronger suppressive properties. We will study this process to identify the factors driving these changes and how they may be halted. 3.Examining the role of ARTN in cancer progression: By comparing mice that produce ARTN with those that do not, we will investigate how this protein from CECs contributes to tumor growth and metastasis. Ultimately, this study could lead to new ways to treat TNBC by targeting immature blood cells and ARTN, potentially improving outcomes for patients with breast cancer.