How the flexibility of tissue affects breast cancer cell movement

Role of extracellular matrix malleability in mediating breast cancer cell invasion and migration

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10789843

This study looks at how the stiffness of the tissue around breast cancer cells affects their ability to spread, aiming to find new ways to stop cancer from moving into other parts of the body.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10789843 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix influence the ability of breast cancer cells to invade surrounding tissues. By studying ductal carcinoma, the most common form of breast cancer, the researchers aim to understand how changes in tissue stiffness and malleability affect cancer cell migration and the potential for metastasis. The study employs advanced techniques to analyze how cancer cells interact with their environment, focusing on the role of matrix mechanical plasticity in facilitating or hindering cell movement. Insights gained from this research could lead to new strategies for preventing cancer spread.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with ductal carcinoma or invasive ductal carcinoma who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with non-breast cancer conditions 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 innovative treatments that inhibit breast cancer metastasis by targeting the mechanical properties of the surrounding tissue.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the extracellular matrix in cancer progression, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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 Cancer
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.