Investigating how exosomes influence the spread of metastatic breast cancer

A physical sciences approach to investigate the role of exosomes in metastatic progression

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10977519

This study is looking at how tiny particles released by cancer cells might help triple-negative breast cancer spread, and it aims to find new ways to treat the disease by understanding how these particles interact with the surrounding tissue and the immune system.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10977519 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of exosomes, which are tiny particles released by cancer cells, in the progression of metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The team will explore how the stiffness of the surrounding tissue and the tension within cells affect the production and content of these exosomes. By examining how these exosomes can suppress the immune response and facilitate metastasis, the research aims to uncover new insights into cancer biology. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to novel therapeutic strategies targeting exosome activity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer who are experiencing metastatic progression.

Not a fit: Patients with non-metastatic breast cancer or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the immune response against metastatic breast cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of exosomes in cancer progression, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions Breast Cancer CellBreast Cancer ModelBreast Cancer PatientCancer Biology
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.