Creating 3D models to study breast cancer metastasis

Core 2: Stanford Breast Metastasis Center Organoid Core

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10905017

This study is creating special 3D models of breast cancer from actual patients to learn more about how the disease spreads and how it reacts to treatments, helping to improve care for those with breast cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10905017 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced 3D organoid models derived from breast cancer patients to better understand the complexities of metastatic disease. By utilizing patient-derived organoids (PDOs), the study aims to replicate the tumor environment more accurately than traditional methods, allowing for a deeper investigation into how breast cancer spreads and responds to treatments. The research employs innovative culture techniques that maintain the genetic and histological characteristics of the original tumors, providing a platform for testing drug responses and exploring the tumor microenvironment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer patients who are undergoing treatment and can provide tumor samples for organoid development.

Not a fit: Patients with non-breast cancer conditions or those who do not have accessible tumor samples may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for breast cancer by providing insights into how tumors behave and respond to therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar organoid models in other cancer types, indicating a promising approach for breast cancer as well.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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 Breast CancerBreast Cancer ModelBreast Cancer Patient
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.