Investigating how cancer stem cells transfer mitochondria to immune cells
Official title: Tumor stem cell initiated mitochondrial transfer
Funded at Texas Tech University · NIH-10954196 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cancer cells might share their energy-producing parts, called mitochondria, with immune cells, which could change how both types of cells behave; by learning more about this process, we hope to find new ways to treat cancer that could help patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas Tech University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lubbock, United States) |
| Project start | July 3, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $161,794 |
| NIH project number | 1R03CA293129-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10954196 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with various types of cancer, particularly those with aggressive forms that may involve cancer stem cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancers do not involve stem cell characteristics may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of mitochondria in cancer, particularly how cancer stem cells may transfer their mitochondria to macrophages, a type of immune cell. By understanding this process, the research aims to uncover how these mitochondrial modifications can influence cancer cell behavior and immune responses. The study will involve testing different cancer types to see if this mitochondrial transfer occurs consistently and whether it is an active or passive process. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting cancer metabolism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that disrupt the metabolic advantages cancer cells gain from mitochondrial transfer.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of mitochondrial transfer from cancer stem cells to macrophages is novel, related research has shown that mitochondrial dynamics play a significant role in cancer progression.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Kuan-Hui — Texas Tech University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Kuan-Hui
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.