Biomarkers of Persistent Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment in Breast Cancer Survivors

2026 Award: $57,240

Many cancer survivors experience lasting memory and concentration problems after treatment, often alongside depression, anxiety, or stress. This project will study biological signals in breast cancer survivors to better understand how cognitive and mental health symptoms may be connected and help guide the development of future mechanism-based treatments that improve long-term brain health for cancer survivors.

Need/Problem:At least 1 in 3 cancer survivors experience persistent problems with memory, attention, and thinking after cancer treatment, often called “chemobrain.” These cognitive symptoms frequently occur alongside depression, anxiety, and stress and can interfere with work, daily functioning, and quality of life. Despite how common these challenges are, we have no established treatments.

Grant Summary:This project will examine biological markers in the blood of long-term breast cancer survivors to better understand why some survivors experience lasting cognitive problems after treatment. The study will also explore how mental health symptoms may interact with these biological changes.

Goals & Projected Outcomes:This study will identify biological pathways associated with long-lasting cognitive symptoms and clarify how depression, anxiety, and stress may influence these relationships. The findings will generate preliminary data needed to support a future NIH-funded clinical trial aimed at developing targeted treatments.

Zev Nakamura, MD

Grant Details: The study will analyze blood samples from 128 long-term breast cancer survivors who have been evaluated for cognitive problems and mental health symptoms. Researchers will measure inflammatory markers and a brain-health protein called BDNF, along with thousands of additional proteins using an advanced protein analysis method. By linking these biological patterns with survivors’ cognitive and mental health symptoms, as well as unique aspects of their cancer and cancer treatment, the project aims to identify potential targets for future treatments.