How dying cells influence the spread of breast cancer
Official title: Promotion of metastasis by apoptotic cells
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11082372 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how dying cells might help breast cancer spread to other parts of the body, especially the lungs, and it aims to find new ways to stop that from happening.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $699,332 |
| NIH project number | 5U01CA289564-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082372 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those at risk of metastasis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-breast cancer types or those whose cancer has already metastasized extensively may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how apoptotic (dying) cells can promote the spread of breast cancer to other parts of the body. It explores the mechanisms by which these dying cells attract platelets and immune cells, potentially aiding cancer cells in surviving and establishing new tumors. The study will involve laboratory models to observe the interactions between apoptotic cells and cancer cells, focusing on their behavior in the lungs where metastasis often occurs. By understanding these processes, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets to inhibit cancer spread.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing the metastasis of breast cancer, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting apoptotic cell interactions can influence cancer progression, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oberst, Andrew Atwell — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Oberst, Andrew Atwell
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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.