Improving tumor micro-environment analysis using micro-capsules

IMAT-ITCR Collaboration: Multiplexed Spatial Data Calibration and analysis using micro-capsules

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL · NIH-11135693

This study is testing a new technology that uses tiny capsules to better understand the environment around tumors in cancer patients, which could help doctors figure out the best treatments for each person more quickly and easily.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorHARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11135693 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the understanding of the tumor micro-environment (TME) in cancer patients by developing a new technology using micro-capsules. These micro-capsules will allow for rapid and sensitive profiling of TME components, overcoming limitations of current methods like single cell RNA-Sequencing, which can be expensive and time-consuming. By analyzing the TME more effectively, researchers hope to correlate its composition with patient prognosis and therapy responses, ultimately leading to better-targeted treatments. The approach focuses on creating a scalable solution that can be applied to larger patient cohorts.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are undergoing treatment and have tumors that can be profiled for their micro-environment characteristics.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose tumors are not accessible for profiling may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and timely cancer treatments tailored to individual patients based on their unique tumor micro-environment.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using advanced profiling techniques for cancer treatment, but this specific micro-capsule approach is novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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 →

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.