Dr. Seema Singh awarded NIH grant to investigate breast cancer disparities

Dr. Seema Singh, professor of cell and molecular biology and associate director of education and training at the Cancer Center and Research Institute, has received a $354,207 grant from the National Institutes of Health. The funding will support her research into the causes and mechanisms of early-onset and aggressive breast cancer progression, which is more frequently observed in certain populations.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype with limited treatment options. Some groups are more likely to be diagnosed with TNBC at a younger age and face worse clinical outcomes.

Singh’s research will explore how social experiences influence the host biology, increasing the risk of developing breast cancer at a younger age by promoting faster progression and suppressing the immune system through hormonal, immune and inflammatory pathways.

Singh believes this understanding will lead to novel strategies to improve outcomes across all populations.

“This is a deeply collaborative effort involving lab scientists, clinicians, and social and population health,” said Singh. “The goal is to generate insights that could lead to more effective strategies for improving cancer outcomes, especially for Mississippians disproportionately affected by socioeconomic challenges.”

The research has the potential to drive advances in cancer risk prediction, prevention, treatment options and overall patient care.