Illuminating the pro-malignant landscape of the post-partum breast: new avenues for the therapeutic targeting of pregnancy-associated breast cancer

The risk of developing breast cancer varies greatly throughout a woman’s lifetime. A window of heightened susceptibility follows each pregnancy, and this risk is elevated and extended in women who have their first child over the age of 30. Whilst a diagnosis of breast cancer is equally devastating for all women, presentation of this disease in new mothers (termed “post-partum breast cancer”) brings with it additional medical and personal challenges. Prime amongst these is a significantly reduced rate of survival. This project examines a novel mechanism of cell-to-cell communication in the post-partum breast and will provide important insights into the mechanisms that underpin breast cancer in new mothers.

Expected outcomes and deliverables: 

This project will provide introductory-level training in cell and animal physiology, as well as important insights into the exciting world of biomedical research.

Administrative enquiries: Please contact Myrtle Sahabandu, Research and Scholarships Officer (Thursday and Friday), School of Pharmacy Email: research@pharmacy.uq.edu.au