Finding new treatment targets by measuring how ovarian cancer cells squeeze
Identifying novel targets for cancer using high throughput deformability screening
Researchers are looking for new drug targets to stop platinum-resistant ovarian cancer cells from spreading by testing how squishy these cells are.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11250018 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers at UCLA will use a high-throughput filtration device to measure how deformable (squishy) ovarian cancer cells are and separate platinum-resistant cells from sensitive ones. They will screen large libraries of small molecules against these resistant cell lines to find compounds that change deformability and reduce traits linked to spread. The work focuses on high-grade serous ovarian cancer, where recurrence after platinum chemotherapy is common. Successful hits would reveal biological targets for drugs that could block the spread of chemo-resistant tumor cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with high-grade serous ovarian cancer, especially those whose tumors have recurred or become resistant to platinum chemotherapy, are the most relevant group for this research.
Not a fit: Patients with other cancer types, non-recurrent early-stage ovarian cancer that remains platinum-sensitive, or non-cancer conditions are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this preclinical work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new drugs or targets that prevent the spread of chemo-resistant ovarian cancer and lower the chance of recurrence.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier research has shown platinum-resistant ovarian cancer cells are often more deformable, but using high-throughput deformability screening to find drugs is a novel approach that has not yet been tested in patients.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rowat, Amy C — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Rowat, Amy C
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 below.