Atousa Khiabany

• MSc Biomedical Sciences
• Validating KDM3A as a novel target for breast cancer therapy

Current breast cancer treatment involves the use of Tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors which prevent the binding of estrogen to estrogen receptors (ER). The aim of this study is investigating possible future treatments in malignancies which no longer respond to these treatments.  The ER is involved in breast epithelial cell division, and KDM3A is an enzyme which increases ER activity. By looking at KDM3A function, it is possible to investigate the hypothesis for the study which is 'depletion of KDM3A will attenuate growth of Tamoxifen-resistant cells', and if true, develop therapies aimed at those who have failed conventional therapy.

Funding source: Newcastle University