Investigating how certain immune signals affect the growth of lymphatic vessels in tumors

Role of Th2 cytokines in progenitor-mediated formation of tumor lymphatics

NIH-funded research Southern Illinois University Sch of Med · NIH-10950031

This study is looking at how certain immune cells help form new lymphatic vessels in breast cancer, which can affect how the cancer spreads, and it's hoping to find new ways to treat patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSouthern Illinois University Sch of Med NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Springfield, United States)
Project IDNIH-10950031 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of Th2 cytokines in the formation of lymphatic vessels associated with tumors, particularly in breast cancer. It examines how bone marrow-derived progenitor cells contribute to the development of these vessels, which are linked to the spread of cancer to lymph nodes and other organs. By studying specific immune cell types and their markers, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that promote tumor lymphatics, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies. Patients with metastatic breast cancer may provide valuable insights into the behavior of these progenitor cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer who have lymph node involvement.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those without lymph node metastasis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for breast cancer by targeting the mechanisms that facilitate tumor spread through lymphatic vessels.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of immune cells in tumor progression can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Springfield, 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.