Developing probes to identify cancer cells based on sugar transporters
Official title: Molecular probes for targeting facilitative fructose transporters (GLUTs) in biochemical and biomedical applications
Funded at Michigan Technological University · NIH-10808247 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new tools to help doctors spot cancer cells, especially in breast cancer, by focusing on how these cells take in sugar differently than normal cells, which could lead to better ways to diagnose and treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan Technological University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houghton, United States) |
| Project start | July 3, 2019 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $455,433 |
| NIH project number | 2R15CA242401-02A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10808247 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer or those at high risk for developing this type of cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancers do not rely on fructose uptake may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating molecular probes that specifically target fructose transporters in cells, which are often overactive in cancer. By distinguishing between cancerous and normal cells based on their sugar uptake, the study aims to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for cancers, particularly breast cancer. The approach involves developing techniques to visualize and assess the activity of these transporters, which could lead to better identification of cancer cells in imaging applications. Patients may benefit from enhanced diagnostic tools that could lead to more personalized treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate cancer diagnostics and targeted therapies for patients with breast cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting specific transporters for cancer diagnostics, indicating that this approach could be a meaningful advancement in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tanasova, Marina — Michigan Technological University
- Study coordinator: Tanasova, Marina
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.