Finding new ways to stop breast cancer from spreading

Phenotypic marker-guided development of selective antimetastasis therapeutic leads

NIH-funded research Northwestern University · NIH-11128807

This research aims to discover new medicines that can specifically target and stop breast cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11128807 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

We know that cancer spreading, or metastasis, is a major challenge in treating breast cancer, and current treatments often don't fully address it. This project takes a fresh approach by looking at unique features within cancer cells that are linked to their ability to spread. By identifying these specific features, we hope to find new drug candidates that can selectively block the metastatic process. Our goal is to develop more effective treatments that can improve long-term outcomes for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is for patients with breast cancer, especially those at risk of or experiencing metastasis, who may benefit from future therapies developed from this work.

Not a fit: Patients without breast cancer or those whose cancer is not metastatic would not directly benefit from this specific research focus.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective medications specifically designed to prevent or treat breast cancer metastasis, potentially improving patient survival.

How similar studies have performed: While current anti-cancer agents have shown success in treating primary tumors, effective treatments specifically targeting metastasis remain a significant challenge, making this approach novel.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 AgentsBreast Cancer
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.