Creating a 3D model to test treatments for colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver

3D Engineered Model of Microscopic Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastasis for Adjuvant Chemotherapy Screens

NIH-funded research Texas Engineering Experiment Station · NIH-10746101

This study is creating a special 3D model of the liver to help find better treatments for colorectal cancer that has spread there, using real patient cells to test different chemotherapy options that could target hidden cancer cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas Engineering Experiment Station NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Station, United States)
Project IDNIH-10746101 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a three-dimensional engineered model that mimics the liver environment affected by colorectal cancer metastasis. By using patient-derived cells and specialized scaffolds, the researchers aim to create a platform that can accurately replicate microscopic residual disease that often goes undetected. The goal is to screen various adjuvant chemotherapy treatments to find effective options that can eliminate these hidden cancer cells. This innovative approach may lead to more effective therapies for patients with colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are colorectal cancer patients who have developed liver metastasis and are undergoing treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with colorectal cancer who do not have liver metastasis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for colorectal cancer patients, potentially reducing recurrence rates after surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using engineered models for cancer treatment testing, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

College Station, 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 therapy
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.