It is now understood that Triple Negative breast cancer has many biologic nuances and a heterogeneity not previously understood. The aim of this project is to further characterise the role of HIF-1 in Triple Negative breast cancer and its response to inhibition and to assess its potential as a predictive biomarker of treatment response. Low-oxygen (hypoxia) is a common feature of breast tumours that promotes aggressive disease outcomes and poor patient survival. Hypoxia is “sensed” in cells by a protein HIF-1 and its accumulation in oxygen-deprived cancer cells promotes the growth of new tumour blood vessels and causes cancer cells to become invasive and resistant to anticancer therapy.

FIRST NAMED INVESTIGATOR: Dr Dean Singleton
HOST INVESTIGATOR: University of Auckland