A colon cancer chip that studies how tumors interact with their environment

A microengineered colon cancer-chip designed to investigate tumor-stromal interactions driving cancer progression

NIH-funded research Ellison Institute, LLC · NIH-10988276

This study is creating a special model of colon cancer that closely resembles how tumors grow in the body, using real cancer cells from patients, so researchers can better understand how these tumors behave and respond to treatments, which could lead to better care for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEllison Institute, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10988276 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research develops a microengineered model of colon cancer that mimics the natural environment of tumors. By using advanced organ-on-chip technology, the project aims to create a 3D system that incorporates patient-derived cancer cells and surrounding stromal cells. This model will allow researchers to observe how tumors grow and respond to treatments over time, providing insights that traditional models cannot offer. Patients may benefit from improved understanding of their cancer and more effective treatment options based on these findings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer who are seeking innovative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous gastrointestinal conditions or those not diagnosed with colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for colon cancer, improving survival rates and treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research using organ-on-chip technology has shown promise in understanding cancer biology and testing therapies, indicating a potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions anti-cancer research
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.