This prospective observational study aims to evaluate serum levels of PTEN, a tumor suppressor gene, and organ-specific microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with metastatic patterns in breast cancer. Serum samples will be analyzed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR)-based miRNA profiling and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-based PTEN quantification. Three groups will be included: patients with metastatic breast cancer (n=80), patients with non-metastatic early-stage breast cancer (n=40), and healthy controls (n=40).
The primary objective is to identify serum biomarkers that differentiate metastatic from non-metastatic disease. Secondary analyses will evaluate correlations between biomarker levels and organ-specific metastatic involvement, including bone, lung, liver, and brain metastases. Findings from this study may support the development of a noninvasive serum-based tool for predicting metastatic patterns in breast cancer.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
FEMALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Female individuals aged ≥18 years
* Ability to provide written informed consent
* Group I (Metastatic BC): Histopathologically confirmed breast cancer and radiologically or clinically proven distant organ metastasis at the time of enrollment
* Group II (Non-Metastatic BC): Histopathologically confirmed breast cancer with no evidence of distant metastasis
* Group III (Healthy Controls): Women ≥18 years with no known breast disease and no personal history of malignancy
Exclusion Criteria:
* History of any other primary malignancy
* Known breast disease or breast cancer diagnosis in Group III
* Immunosuppressive therapy that may alter immune or biomarker profiles
* Active infection or inflammatory condition that may alter biomarker levels
* Inability or unwillingness to provide informed consent
* Severe hepatic, renal, or hematologic dysfunction
* Current pregnancy or lactation
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.