Investigating how fat tissue affects ovarian cancer growth
Role of the pro-inflammatory omental microenvironment in ovarian cancer progression
This study is looking at how a type of fat tissue in the abdomen affects the growth of high-grade serous ovarian cancer, focusing on how certain proteins from fat cells might change how cancer cells behave and how the immune system responds, with the hope of finding new ways to help patients feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078232 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the omental microenvironment, which is a type of abdominal fat tissue, in the progression of high-grade serous ovarian cancer. It examines how certain proteins produced by fat cells can influence cancer cell behavior and immune responses. By studying the interactions between ovarian cancer cells and adipocytes, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve patient outcomes. The approach includes analyzing the effects of specific proteins like omentin and TSG-6 on cancer cell invasion and immune activation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with high-grade serous ovarian cancer, particularly those with abdominal fat accumulation.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of ovarian cancer or those without significant abdominal fat may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that inhibit ovarian cancer progression and improve survival rates for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the role of adipokines in cancer progression, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Au Yeung, Chi Lam — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Au Yeung, Chi Lam
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.