Investigating how cancer cells communicate and affect their environment

Structure-informed dissection of cancer-specific intracellular and paracrine networks

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11171864

This study is looking at how cancer cells, especially in tough cases like colon and pancreatic cancers, work together and with their surroundings to grow, using new models and smart technology to find ways to improve treatment options.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11171864 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how cancer cells interact with each other and their surrounding environment, particularly in aggressive tumors like colon and pancreatic cancers. By developing advanced models that simulate these interactions, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that allow cancer cells to thrive and recruit other cells to support tumor growth. The study employs innovative deep learning techniques to analyze protein interactions and signaling pathways, which could lead to new insights into cancer progression and treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with aggressive forms of colon or pancreatic cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with non-aggressive cancers or those not diagnosed with colon or pancreatic cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that disrupt harmful cell interactions in tumors, potentially improving outcomes for cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to understand cancer cell interactions, indicating a potential for success in this novel investigation.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
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.