Investigating how lipids from fat cells influence melanoma development
Lipid programs in melanocyte transformation
This study is looking at how fats from fat cells might help normal skin cells turn into melanoma, using zebrafish and human cells to see how these fats affect cancer growth, which could lead to new ways to treat melanoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091442 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of lipids released from subcutaneous fat cells in the transformation of normal melanocytes into melanoma. By using a zebrafish model alongside human cell cultures, the study aims to understand how these lipids are taken up by melanoma cells and how they contribute to tumor growth and invasion. The researchers will investigate the signaling mechanisms involved in this process, particularly focusing on the interaction between melanoma cells and adipocytes. This could lead to new insights into melanoma progression and potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for melanoma or those diagnosed with early-stage melanoma.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced melanoma who have already undergone extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating melanoma by targeting the lipid interactions that promote tumor growth.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of studying lipid interactions in melanoma is relatively novel, similar research has shown promising results in understanding cancer metabolism and cell signaling.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Overholtzer, Michael H. — Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
- Study coordinator: Overholtzer, Michael H.
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.