FIRST NAMED INVESTIGATOR: Dr Magdalena Ratajska
HOST INVESTIGATOR: Department of Pathology, University of Otago, Dunedin

Problem
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a type of breast cancer that makes up about 20% of all cases. It often spreads quickly, especially to the brain, which can seriously lower a patient’s quality of life and lifespan. Once TNBC reaches the brain, treatment options are limited and usually only offer a small improvement.

Project
Our research focuses on the BARD1 gene, which normally helps cells work correctly. But in some TNBC patients, certain BARD1 gene changes increase the chances of cancer spreading to the brain. We will use advanced gene-editing tools and DNA analysis to figure out which specific BARD1 changes cause this risk.

Outcome
By identifying which patients have high-risk BARD1 changes, we hope to catch brain metastasis early or even prevent it, giving patients a better chance at a longer, healthier life.

Future
This research could lead to better ways to identify and treat high-risk TNBC patients and improve our overall understanding of how cancer spreads.