Research Projects
Prevent Breast Cancer funds high quality research into the prediction and prevention of breast cancer.
Find out more about Prevent Breast Cancer’s current breast cancer research projects and latest findings. On this page you can find information:
Current Research
How can we engage BRCA carriers identified in population testing with cancer prevention?
Lead Researcher: Professor Michelle Harvie, University of Manchester and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
This study is exploring how women who discover they carry a BRCA gene mutation through NHS population testing understand and respond to their risk. Many of these women do not have a family history of breast cancer, so their experiences can be very different to those seen in Family History Clinics. By finding out what support they need and which prevention strategies they are most likely to consider, this research will help shape better services and ensure that advice is clear, tailored, and empowering.
Preventing Breast Cancer Through Breastfeeding: Identifying Early Genetic Risk Markers
Lead Researcher: Professor James Flanagan, Imperial College London
PhD student Sophia D’Alessandro (speaking in the video)
This study looks at how breastfeeding may help lower the risk of breast cancer. We will examine breast cells found in milk from hundreds of women to see if harmful genetic changes are removed during breastfeeding and look at how lifestyle factors, like the length of time a woman breastfeeds, may influence this process. The results could provide new evidence on how breastfeeding protects women, while also improving ways to detect risk at an earlier stage.
Improving Equitable Access and Uptake of Breast Cancer Preventative Medications through Telehealth Innovations
Lead Researcher: Professor Juliet Usher-Smith, University of Cambridge
Medicines such as tamoxifen and anastrozole can reduce the risk of breast cancer by up to 60%, yet very few women in the UK currently take them. This project is testing whether online consultations could change that. By adapting a successful Australian telehealth service for the NHS, women at higher risk will be offered personalised, remote appointments and follow-up support. The study will assess whether this approach makes it easier for women to get the right information and feel confident about their choices. If successful, the service could be expanded nationwide, giving thousands more women convenient access to proven prevention options.
Research Findings
Improving Risk Prediction for Young Women with Breast Cancer
Project Lead: Dr William Tapper, University of Southampton
Young onset breast cancer (YOBC) is typically more aggressive and presents different risk factors than breast cancer in older women yet remains poorly understood. This study aims to improve risk prediction for younger patients by developing a polygenic risk score (PRS) tailored to their unique genetic profiles. Researchers are investigating the relationship between inherited DNA variations and tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs, immune cells known to influence treatment response).
Dr Tapper’s team has now genotyped DNA samples from 2,811 women with YOBC, analysing over 1.5 million genetic variants. They also updated long-term health records for these patients, capturing outcomes over an average of 17 years. The next phase will involve assessing existing PRSs and developing a new, more accurate version optimised for younger women. The study also aims to identify genetic variants linked to immune activity in tumours, opening the door to more personalised, immune-based prevention and treatment strategies.
Predicting the Impact of Risk-Adapted Screening Using Microsimulation
Project Leads: Dr Elaine Harkness and Professor Sue Astley, University of Manchester
This project is harnessing the power of microsimulation, a computational tool used to test complex screening strategies, to predict the outcomes of risk-adapted breast cancer screening in the UK. Specifically, the team is focused on women with dense breast tissue, who are at higher risk of developing breast cancer but less likely to benefit from standard mammography alone.
After gaining access to OncoSim-Breast, a leading Canadian microsimulation platform, the team is adapting it for NHS screening scenarios and conducting a detailed literature review to update key parameters. The next steps will involve validating the model with UK screening data, integrating patient and public input, and simulating a range of risk-based screening strategies. The findings will help guide future NHS policy and could significantly improve early detection for women at greatest risk.
The Search for Hidden Mutations in Familial Breast Cancer
Project Leads: Dr Miriam Smith and Dr Emma Woodward, University of Manchester
Part of the Doctor Alan H. Gowenlock PhD Studentship Award.
Despite the discovery of key breast cancer genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2, many families with a strong history of breast and ovarian cancer still receive negative results from standard genetic testing. This project aims to uncover the mechanism of action of cancer-causing mutations in non-coding regions of DNA, areas once considered “junk” but now known to play vital roles in gene regulation.
Our PhD student completed a comprehensive literature review of published BRCA1 variants, in addition to novel variants identified in the clinical laboratory in Manchester, soon to be submitted as a scientific publication. We have screened the promoter of the ATM gene to see if a similar mechanism might occur in other known breast cancer genes, but so far ATM does not seem to have this type of mutation.
The project has also involved working closely with the University’s Genome Editing Unit to develop cell models using CRISPR technology to create a breast tissue derived cell line containing the specific non-coding mutation that will allow us to study previously unexplored mechanisms of inherited breast cancer predisposition.
By identifying hidden mutations that escape standard tests, this research could lead to more accurate genetic screening, earlier diagnosis for high-risk families, and the discovery of new targets for breast cancer prevention and treatment.
Human Breast Tissue Explant Model for Prevention Research
Project Lead: Dr Hannah Harrison, University of Manchester
Animal models have long dominated preclinical breast cancer research, but they often fail to replicate the complexity of human breast tissue. This project is developing a human tissue explant model as a more accurate, ethical, and personalised alternative for testing breast cancer prevention strategies.
Over the past year, the team has significantly extended the model’s lifespan and refined a multi-colour imaging system to assess changes in tissue structure and response to drugs. They have observed a previously undocumented tissue reaction to oestrogen and successfully tested tamoxifen within the model. The explant system is now contributing to larger studies, including a £600,000 CRUK-funded project and work on BRCA1-related prevention.
Next steps include validating the model against real-world patient outcomes and testing new preventive agents. This innovative tool could transform how we evaluate prevention strategies, leading to safer, more effective options for women at high risk of developing breast cancer.
Investigating the Effectiveness of Preventative Tamoxifen
Project Lead: Dr Andrew Gilmore, University of Manchester
Tamoxifen is an effective preventative drug for many women at increased risk of breast cancer, but only around half respond to treatment. This project explored why these differences occur by analysing breast tissue from women in clinical trials before and after three months of tamoxifen. The team identified specific biological changes in the breast tissue of women who respond to the drug, while non-responders did not show these changes, marking an important step toward more personalised prevention.
The pilot study, completed in June 2024, generated the crucial preliminary data needed to secure a prestigious Cancer Research UK Biology to Prevention grant. This larger project will now build on the pilot’s findings by analysing mammograms and breast tissue to identify markers that can predict treatment response and by investigating alternative preventative options for women who do not benefit from tamoxifen.
Next steps include validating these biomarkers in larger groups of women and developing tools to identify who is most likely to respond to tamoxifen. This research could ensure tamoxifen is used more effectively, reduce unnecessary side effects, and open the door to new prevention strategies for women who need alternative approaches.
Alcohol Consumption and Breast Cancer Risk
Project Lead: Dr Emma Davies, Oxford Brookes University
Alcohol is a modifiable risk factor for breast cancer, yet awareness of this link remains low. This project explored how best to communicate this risk to middle-aged women and identified the most effective strategies to support healthier drinking habits. The team examined how different groups of women respond to prevention messages and which behaviour-change tools can motivate long-term reductions in alcohol intake.
The study, completed in March 2024, identified four audience groups with distinct preferences for prevention messaging and found that evidence-based formats like podcasts work particularly well when information is delivered in clear, relatable terms. Behaviour-change techniques such as substitution strategies and social support showed promise, while the research also highlighted the influence of stigma and social norms around women’s drinking.
These findings informed the proposed the SPACES (Storytelling Promoting Alcohol Choice, Empowerment and Sharing) intervention, which uses personal stories and practical tools to support alcohol reduction. This work provides a strong foundation for future programmes aimed at raising awareness of alcohol-related breast cancer risk and helping women make healthier choices.
DNA Saliva Test
Prevent Breast Cancer scientists and their colleagues have identified over 300 DNA fragments which affect breast cancer risk. They also developed a simple saliva test to detect them, which will help to quickly determine each woman’s risk of developing the disease.
Preventative Drugs
Preventative drugs are a key research area for Prevent Breast Cancer. In some cases, people with a high risk of developing breast cancer may be able to take certain medications in order to make it less likely that they will get the disease in future.
Risk Adapted Breast Screening
Studies were carried out to assess the effectiveness of risk adapted breast screening in the UK and Europe (MyPebs) and of the Family History Risk and Prevention Clinic (FH-Risk) in improving outcomes for women with a high risk of developing breast cancer.
Gene Research
Gene research is the study of DNA to find out what might lead to people developing breast cancer. Genes are short sections of DNA that are inherited, meaning that if you have a family history of breast cancer, this can increase the likelihood that you will also develop the disease. In certain cases, gene mutations – or an alteration in the DNA sequence – can lead to a very high risk of breast cancer that is passed down through generations of family members, such as the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.
Research funded by Prevent Breast Cancer aimed to find out more about which other genetic factors can increase the risk of developing cancer. The overall aim was to improve the breast screening process, so women know their personal risk of developing the disease.
SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms)
SNPs are small DNA fragments that our research has proved to be a valid predictor of the risk of developing breast cancer. In total, over 300 of these tiny but significant gene fragments have been discovered by our research team, who have developed a simple saliva test to detect them. Research has shown that around 28% of hereditary breast cancers can be attributed to SNPs variations and they are predicted to account for more once further research has been undertaken. SNPs are far more commonly found than known gene mutations (for example, BRCA1 and BRCA2 account for around 20%), making them an incredibly important for identifying someone’s breast cancer risk. Our hope for the future is that SNPs testing will form part of the NHS screening programme, and help to predict a woman’s particular breast cancer risk.
BRCA
Previous Prevent Breast Cancer funded research involved women who had undergone genetic testing and were confirmed as carriers of the BCRA1 or BRCA2 gene. Research showed a major benefit from undergoing risk-reducing surgery, particularly removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes which reduces the risk of both ovarian cancer greatly and breast cancer by about half. The study showed that women who have any form of risk-reducing surgery had increased survival compared to those deciding against an operation (e.g., relying on MRI screening alone). Life expectancy was almost normalised in those that underwent surgery but substantially reduced in those who did not.
Replication of human breast tissue to test drugs on
In 2019 our researchers developed a complex replication of human breast tissue enabled them to undertake large scale testing of preventative drugs. The model so closely resembles real breast tissue that it even mimics mammographic density, an important breast cancer risk factor. Our scientists used this model to identify the best drugs to take directly into clinical trials, speeding up the process and avoiding animal testing.
Improving the accuracy of genetic testing
Our researchers found a mechanism by which the important BRCA1 gene no longer functions in certain families, which is called epigenetic silencing and isn’t detected in current gene tests. Future research would test whether this is also happening with the genes BRCA2 & PALB2, so that affected families can gain access to appropriate treatment methods, support, and avenues for prevention.
PROCAS
Prevent Breast Cancer’s PROCAS (Predicting the Risk of Cancer at Screening) study was launched in 2009 and will revolutionise NHS breast screening by predicting a woman’s individual risk of breast cancer at the time of her mammogram. Risk is calculated based on breast density, family history and lifestyle. We would also like to see SNPs testing as part of the breast screening process. Those found to be at higher risk will be provided with advice and support and where appropriate, offered options including more frequent mammograms, preventative drugs and surgery. The hope is that this more sophisticated approach to screening will be rolled out across the UK in the near future.
Anti-clotting drugs
The most common cells found in the tissue surrounding breast ducts and lobules are called fibroblasts. Our research team has previously found that these cells are involved in blood clotting and are related to increased breast density as well as increased risk of developing early-stage breast cancer. Breast density is the second biggest risk factor for developing breast cancer, after age₈.
Breast cancer resembles a non-healing wound, with increased clotting in breast tumours. Future research is now required to prove whether the fibroblasts in high density tissue create an environment, which increases clotting and causes normal breasts to develop breast cancer and benign cases of pre-cancer to become invasive.
Anti-clotting drugs could drastically reduce the risk of breast cancer in many women if fibroblasts do play an important role.
Anti-prolactin drugs to target the hormone prolactin
In 2013, the National Institute of Clinical Excellence adopted our recommendation that the drugs tamoxifen and raloxifen be used to help high risk women reduce their risk of developing breast cancer. Unfortunately, these drugs have difficult side effects, so our researchers worked to identify preventative medication that is more effective, well-tolerated and safe.
In 2019, they investigated whether targeting the hormone prolactin could stop the disease before it starts, which could lead to anti-prolactin drugs being used to reduce breast cancer risk. As this medication is currently used to treat the disease, it is known to be safe and without significant adverse side effects. Results suggested that there are differences in hormone signalling in some women. Further research will test whether this makes cancer more likely to develop and if inhibiting the key hormone pathways could lead to effective and safe new drugs.
Early Detection and Screening
Screening is essential to ensure that breast cancer is caught as early as possible, and that people are provided with the treatment that is right for them. Until we can completely prevent the disease we will continue to undertake high-quality research into improving the screening process for breast cancer.
Establishing why higher breast density causes cancer
High breast density is the most significant risk factor for breast cancer after age. It can mean that a woman is six times more likely to develop the disease.
Breast density refers to the supportive tissue around cells in the breast, known as extra-cellular matrix (ECM). An important component of ECM is collagen, which give a “stiffness” to the breast tissue, and breasts with dense ECM show up as whiter on mammograms.
Our scientists worked on lab-based projects to try and understand why high breast density is such a significant indicator of risk. They have discovered that denser breast tissue is subject to higher levels of DNA damage, leading to harmful cell signals getting through, and so affecting cancer risk.
Risk Reducing Research
Experts estimate that 25-30% of breast cancers can be prevented through making lifestyle changes such as reducing your alcohol intake, eating healthily and losing weight. Prevent Breast Cancer researchers have previously found that despite this, many women whose family history puts them at a high risk of the disease are overweight and have a high alcohol intake. Although high-risk women can visit Family History Clinics for information and potentially increase the frequency of their mammograms, very little support is given to help these women make positive, long-term changes to their lifestyles.
In 2018, our Family History Lifestyle Study recruited 210 women with a high risk of breast cancer to support and empower them to make positive changes to their diet and lifestyle. The research team hope that a healthy lifestyle programme will be adopted by the NHS, helping to stop breast cancer from developing in high-risk women.
About Prevent Breast Cancer
Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity entirely dedicated to the prediction and prevention of breast cancer – we’re committed to freeing the world from the disease altogether. Unlike many cancer charities, we’re focused on preventing, rather than curing. Promoting early diagnosis, screening and lifestyle changes, we believe we can stop the problem before it starts. And being situated at the only breast cancer prevention centre in the UK, we’re right at the front-line in the fight against the disease. Join us today and help us create a future free from breast cancer. If you have any questions or concerns, email us today.
on January 10, 2023.
on January 1, 2023.
