Investigating how cancer cells manage damaged mitochondria to survive treatment
Secretory Mitophagy in Cancer Metabolic Reprogramming
This study is looking at how cancer cells get rid of damaged parts to survive tough treatments like chemotherapy, and by understanding this process, we hope to find better ways to fight cancer and improve treatment results for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Mason University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fairfax, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061617 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores a process called secretory mitophagy, which helps cancer cells eliminate damaged mitochondria to survive under stress from treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy. By studying how these cells adapt their metabolism and manage mitochondrial damage, the researchers aim to uncover new insights into cancer cell behavior. The approach involves analyzing extracellular vesicles shed by tumors to understand the state of mitochondria in cancer cells. This could lead to better strategies for targeting cancer cells and improving treatment outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with breast cancer who are undergoing or have undergone treatment.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not diagnosed with breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of mitophagy in cancer is established, the specific focus on secretory mitophagy is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Where this research is happening
Fairfax, United States
- George Mason University — Fairfax, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Howard, Marissa Ashton — George Mason University
- Study coordinator: Howard, Marissa Ashton
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.