How changes in fluid thickness affect cancer cell movement
Viscotaxis: Novel cell migration mechanisms regulated by microenvironmental viscosity
This study is looking at how the thickness of the fluids around breast cancer cells affects how they move, which could help us understand how cancer spreads and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11056055 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the viscosity of the surrounding environment influences the movement of breast cancer cells. By using advanced bioengineering techniques and imaging tools, the study aims to understand how cancer cells adapt to different tissue conditions, which is crucial for their ability to spread and form metastases. The research will involve both laboratory assays and in vivo models to explore the relationship between extracellular viscosity and cancer cell behavior. This could lead to new insights into cancer progression and potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with breast cancer who may be at risk of metastasis.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancer is already at an advanced stage may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing cancer metastasis and enhancing treatment outcomes for patients with breast cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding cell motility in varying environments can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Konstantopoulos, Konstantinos — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Konstantopoulos, Konstantinos
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.