Uncovering the Tumor Microbiome in Breast Cancer: Toward Spatial Architecture and Risk Stratification

This study aims to characterize the tumor-associated microbiome in breast cancer and to compare microbial profiles between early-onset (age <50) and later-onset (age ;50) cases, as well as across breast cancer subtypes among ~100 women with breast cancer. The study will utilize archived formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor specimens obtained from the IRB-approved New Jersey Breast Cancer Survivors (NJBCS) Study (IRB Pro2017000069) and the Rutgers Cancer Institute biorepository of banked breast tumor samples (IRB Protocol 001006). In addition, we will collaborate with breast surgeon Dr. Maria Kowzin to collect fresh tumor tissue from a pilot sample of approximately five women undergoing clinically indicated breast surgery.

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