Analyzing and isolating different types of circulating tumor cells in blood samples.
Fractionation and Profiling of Heterogeneous Circulating Tumor Cells Using a Hyperuniform- Structured Microchip
This study is looking at how different types of cancer cells in your blood can help us understand how cancer spreads, using a special tool to separate and analyze these cells, which could lead to better ways to diagnose and treat cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas Tech University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lubbock, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10025872 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the metastatic potential of cancer by isolating and profiling specific subpopulations of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) found in blood samples. Using a novel microchip designed with a hyperuniform structure, the study aims to separate CTCs based on their unique characteristics, allowing for a more detailed analysis of their role in cancer progression. This approach overcomes limitations of current technologies that treat all CTCs as a single group, thus providing insights into how different CTC types contribute to metastasis. The methodology involves in-situ identification and selective recovery of CTCs, which could lead to improved cancer diagnostics and treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic cancer, particularly those with liver involvement.
Not a fit: Patients with localized tumors that have not metastasized may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by providing insights into the specific CTC subpopulations that drive metastasis.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of using hyperuniform structures in microfluidics is innovative, similar approaches in isolating and analyzing CTCs have shown promise in other studies, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Lubbock, United States
- Texas Tech University — Lubbock, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Wei — Texas Tech University
- Study coordinator: Li, Wei
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.