How the quality of bone structure affects cancer spread and treatment response

The role of extracellular matrix quality in the prediction of metastasis-induced skeletal fragility and response to immunotherapy

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST · NIH-10742484

This study is looking at how the structure of bone can affect the spread of cancer and how well certain treatments work for patients with cancer that has spread to the bones, aiming to find ways to help improve treatment outcomes.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HADLEY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10742484 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the quality of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in bones influences the spread of cancer and the effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with metastatic bone disease. It focuses on the interactions between bone cells, immune cells, and cancer cells, particularly looking at how these interactions can lead to bone damage and affect treatment outcomes. By examining specific biomarkers related to the ECM, the study aims to understand how to improve patient responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are a type of cancer treatment. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze these interactions and their implications for patient care.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with advanced solid tumors that have spread to the bones, particularly those receiving immunotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers or those whose cancer has not metastasized to the bones may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with metastatic bone disease, enhancing their quality of life and treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining the ECM's role in metastatic bone disease is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding cancer interactions with bone.

Where this research is happening

HADLEY, 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: Bone Diseases, bone disorder

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.