A 3D platform to study how Ewing sarcoma spreads to bones
3D bioengineered microfluidic platform for research on Ewing sarcoma bone metastasis
This study is looking at how Ewing sarcoma, a bone cancer that affects kids, spreads to bones and trying to find out what makes it worse, using a special lab setup that mimics bone to learn more about the cancer's behavior and the genes involved.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgetown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10976090 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how Ewing sarcoma, a type of bone cancer in children, spreads to bones, which is linked to worse outcomes. The team is developing a 3D microfluidic platform that mimics the bone environment to better understand the mechanisms behind this spread. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR screens, they aim to identify the genetic factors that enable cancer cells to colonize bone tissue. This innovative approach addresses the challenges of studying bone metastasis in traditional models.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, particularly those with or at risk for bone metastasis.
Not a fit: Patients with Ewing sarcoma who do not have bone metastasis or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating bone metastasis in children with Ewing sarcoma.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using a 3D microfluidic platform is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other cancer research, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- Georgetown University — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kitlinska, Joanna B. — Georgetown University
- Study coordinator: Kitlinska, Joanna B.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.