Creating advanced models to test cancer drugs for breast cancer treatment

Engineered biomimetic collective cancer invasion models for screening chemotherapeutic agents

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11115558

This study is working on new 3D models to better understand how breast cancer cells spread, so researchers can find effective treatments that might help patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11115558 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative 3D models that mimic how breast cancer cells invade surrounding tissues. By using engineered biomimetic tumor invasion models, the project aims to screen and identify effective chemotherapeutic agents that can inhibit the spread of breast cancer. The approach involves creating a specialized substrate that allows for real-time observation of cancer cell behavior, helping researchers understand how these cells migrate and respond to treatments. Patients may benefit from the identification of new drugs that could more effectively target metastatic breast cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those who have not been diagnosed with breast cancer may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for metastatic breast cancer, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using 3D models for cancer drug screening, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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 Agentsanti-cancer drugAnti-Cancer Drug ScreensAnticancer Drug Sensitivity Tests
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.