How the physical properties of cells and tissues affect chromosome stability and immune interactions in tumors
Official title: Mechanics of Cells & Tissues impact Chromosome Instability & Phagocytic Interactions
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11085250 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the stiffness of tissues and cells can affect the way tumors grow and interact with the immune system, which could help us understand cancer better and improve treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 8, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $405,782 |
| NIH project number | 5P01CA265794-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085250 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with epithelial cancers that exhibit chromosome instability or aneuploidy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-epithelial cancers or those without chromosome instability may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the mechanical properties of cells and tissues influence chromosome instability and the interactions between tumors and the immune system. By examining 3D tissue architecture and its rigidity, the study aims to understand how these factors contribute to genetic variations in tumors. The research employs both in vitro and in vivo methodologies to explore the relationship between external mechanical signals and internal cellular processes, particularly during cell division. Patients may benefit from insights into how tumor environments affect cancer progression and treatment responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving cancer treatment by targeting the mechanical properties of tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mechanical factors in cancer biology, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Discher, Dennis E. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Discher, Dennis E.
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.