Creating 3D models of tumors to understand cancer drug resistance

Multiscale hydrogel biomaterials-enabled 3D modeling of cancer drug resistance

NIH-funded research Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-11056053

This study is working on creating realistic 3D models of tumors using special materials to help understand why some tumors resist cancer treatments, which could lead to better, personalized therapies for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-11056053 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced 3D models of tumors that better mimic the actual conditions found in human patients. By using innovative hydrogel biomaterials, the team aims to create vascularized tumor structures that can reveal how tumors resist cancer treatments. The approach involves building micro-tumors and integrating them with blood vessel cells to form complex networks, allowing for a more accurate study of drug resistance mechanisms. This could lead to more effective cancer therapies tailored to individual patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with various types of cancer who are experiencing drug resistance to current treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancer who have not yet undergone treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective cancer treatments by improving our understanding of how tumors resist drugs.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using 3D tumor models to study cancer, but this specific approach of creating vascularized tumors is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

College Park, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.