NCT06789653 · UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
A Novel Approach Utilizing Organ Specific Age Proteomics
What this study is about
This study compares changes in P16INK4A expression and plasma proteomic signatures of specific organ age pre- and post-chemotherapy in women treated with adjuvant chemotherapy for early-stage breast cancer. It aims to determine if biological and accelerated immune aging, assessed using T cells from peripheral blood, represents aging in different organs.
View original scientific description
This study compares changes in P16INK4A expression and plasma proteomic signatures of specific organ age pre- and post-chemotherapy in women treated with adjuvant chemotherapy for early-stage breast cancer. It aims to determine if biological and accelerated immune aging, assessed using T cells from peripheral blood, represents aging in different organs. Patients receiving chemotherapy, especially adjuvant regimens that include anthracyclines and taxanes, often experience late development of cardiac toxicity, functional loss, and cognitive decline. Comparing baseline characteristics with organ aging before therapy might identify patients at the highest risk for chemotherapy complications. For example, this is clinically significant for patients whose therapy includes taxanes or other drugs known to cause peripheral neuropathy. Identifying aging in the neurological or vascular systems before treatment might lead to changes in regimens. Determining accelerated aging in specific organs allows for investigating interventions to mitigate organ damage. For instance, identifying patients at the highest risk of cardiac aging after treatment could lead to testing the effects of exercise, senolytics, and other strategies to reduce the risk of long-term heart disease.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
p16INK4a mRNA level assessment
Blood samples will be collected at two time points, plasma samples will be aliquoted, and T cells will be separated and expression of p16INK4a mRNA in peripheral blood T-lymphocytes will be determined
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
organ-specific protein signatures assessment
Blood samples will be collected at two time points, plasma samples will be aliquoted, and organ-specific protein signatures assessment will be determined.
Primary outcome measures
p16INK4a level changes over time
Time frame: Up to 8 months
The p16INK4a level will be determined from collected samples in each group. For the Chemotherapy Group, samples will be drawn before chemotherapy and 6-8 months after chemotherapy. For the Control Group, samples will be collected after diagnosis and again 6-8 months later. The differences will be tabulated.
Organ-specific protein expression change over time
Time frame: Up to 8 months
Organ-specific protein levels will be determined from collected samples in each group. For the Chemotherapy Group, samples will be drawn before chemotherapy and 6-8 months after chemotherapy. For the Control Group, samples will be collected after diagnosis and again 6-8 months later. The differences will be tabulated in grams per deciliter (g/dL)
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age ≥22years and \<66 years
- Diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer (The American Joint Committee on Cancer stages I-III).
- Understand and read English.
- Receive care at the study site.
- Able to understand and participate in study procedures for length of study.
Exclusion criteria
- Unable to provide consent, unable to communicate verbally.
- Unable to understand or read English.
- Enrolled in hospice care.
Where
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations