How macrophages influence cancer spread
Mitochondrial lateral transfer during metastasis
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called macrophages interact with melanoma cancer cells, especially how they might share important parts that help the cancer spread, and it aims to find new ways to fight cancer based on these findings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11013835 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of macrophages in cancer metastasis, particularly how they communicate with tumor cells in the tumor microenvironment. The study focuses on the transfer of cytoplasmic contents, including mitochondria, from macrophages to melanoma cells, which may enhance the cancer cells' ability to spread. By using advanced imaging techniques in zebrafish and mouse models, researchers aim to identify the specific components transferred and the mechanisms behind this process. 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 or melanoma who are experiencing or at risk of metastasis.
Not a fit: Patients with localized cancers that are not expected to metastasize may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing cancer metastasis, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that mitochondrial transfer can occur in tumor environments, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights into cancer biology.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roh, Minna — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Roh, Minna
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.