How the stiffness of the extracellular matrix affects cancer cell behavior
Mechano-metabolism of Cancer Cells: The Role of Extracellular Matrix Stiffness
This study is looking at how the stiffness of the surrounding tissue affects cancer cells, especially when cancer spreads, to help us understand how these cells interact with other types of cells in the body, which could lead to better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11074762 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the stiffness of the extracellular matrix influences the behavior of cancer cells, particularly in the context of metastatic disease. By employing advanced techniques such as single-cell sequencing and various molecular and cellular methods, the study aims to understand the interactions between cancer cells, neural cells, lymphatics, and immune cells. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how these interactions affect cancer progression and treatment responses, potentially leading to more effective therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer or other cancers that may be influenced by extracellular matrix stiffness.
Not a fit: Patients with non-metastatic cancers or those whose conditions do not involve the extracellular matrix may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating metastatic cancer by targeting the interactions between cancer cells and their environment.
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 valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Rockefeller University — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tavazoie, Sohail F. — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Tavazoie, Sohail F.
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.