How fat tissue affects breast cancer growth and spread

Mechanical properties of adipose tissue and its effect on breast cancer

NIH-funded research Cornell University · NIH-10928170

This study is looking at how fat tissue in the body affects breast cancer and how being overweight might make the cancer worse, with the hope of finding better ways to treat patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCornell University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ithaca, United States)
Project IDNIH-10928170 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of white adipose tissue (WAT) in breast cancer, focusing on how its mechanical properties influence tumor cell invasion. The study aims to understand how obesity alters these properties and contributes to worse outcomes in breast cancer patients. By examining the connections between adipocyte mechanics, extracellular matrix remodeling, and tumor invasion, the research seeks to uncover new insights into breast cancer progression. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to improved treatment strategies targeting these mechanisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, especially those with obesity.

Not a fit: Patients with breast cancer who are not obese or do not have significant adipose tissue may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that improve outcomes for breast cancer patients, particularly those who are obese.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between adipose tissue and cancer progression, indicating that this approach has potential for significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Ithaca, 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 Breast CancerBreast Cancer CellBreast Cancer PatientBreast Cancer Risk Factor
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.