How dying cells influence the spread of breast cancer

Promotion of metastasis by apoptotic cells

['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11082372

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

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11082372 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those at risk of metastasis.

Not a fit: Patients with non-breast cancer types or those whose cancer has already metastasized extensively may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy, Breast Cancer, breast cancer metastasis, Breast Cancer Model

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.