Creating a mouse model to understand and treat lung cancer-related weight loss

Development of a clinically relevant mouse model of lung cancer cachexia to study pathoetiology and therapeutic strategies

NIH-funded research University of Vermont & St Agric College · NIH-10899609

This study is creating a special type of mouse to help us understand the weight loss and muscle loss that lung cancer patients experience, so we can find better ways to help those who are struggling with these symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Burlington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10899609 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a mouse model that mimics the weight loss and muscle wasting seen in lung cancer patients, known as cancer cachexia. By studying how lung tumors interact with the body to cause these symptoms, researchers aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies. The project will utilize genetically modified mice with specific mutations to better replicate the human condition, allowing for more relevant findings that could lead to improved treatments for affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with lung cancer, particularly those experiencing significant weight loss or muscle wasting.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage lung cancer who do not exhibit symptoms of cachexia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively combat cancer cachexia, improving the quality of life and treatment outcomes for lung cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using animal models to understand cancer cachexia, but this specific approach aims to fill gaps in existing research by creating a more clinically relevant model.

Where this research is happening

Burlington, 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 Cancer Cachexia
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.