A new model to study the spread of deadly colorectal and gastric cancers.

A vascularized microphysiological system (MPS) platform for modeling peritoneal carcinomatosis

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-11094078

This study is creating a special lab model to learn more about how cancer spreads in the abdomen, which could help improve treatments for patients with colorectal and gastric cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-11094078 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a sophisticated laboratory model to better understand peritoneal carcinomatosis, a severe form of cancer spread from colorectal and gastric tumors. By utilizing a vascularized microphysiological system, researchers will observe how cancer cells behave in a 3D environment that mimics the human body. This approach aims to fill the gaps in current knowledge about cancer metastasis and improve the development of effective therapies. Patients may benefit from advancements in treatment options that arise from this innovative model.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with colorectal or gastric cancer, particularly those experiencing peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage colorectal or gastric cancer without metastasis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for patients suffering from peritoneal carcinomatosis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using similar microphysiological systems has shown promise in understanding cancer biology and developing new treatments.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, 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 researchCancer CauseCancer Etiologycancer in the coloncancer metastasis
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.