Investigating how pressure and shear stress affect tumor cells in blood vessels
Project1: The role of intravascular pressure and shear stress on tumor cell arrest, survival and proliferation in the microvascular niche
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called tumor-associated macrophages affect the spread of metastatic colorectal cancer, especially how they help cancer cells move through barriers in the body, with the goal of finding new ways to understand and fight this type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11187493 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) and how they interact with the tumor microenvironment. Using advanced three-dimensional microfluidic devices, the study aims to understand how these macrophages influence tumor cell migration and invasion, particularly through barriers like the blood-brain barrier. By examining the mechanisms behind these interactions, the research seeks to uncover new insights into how cancer spreads and survives in distant sites.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer who are seeking new treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with localized colorectal cancer or those who have not been diagnosed with colorectal cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that target the mechanisms of cancer metastasis, potentially improving outcomes for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting the tumor microenvironment can be effective in treating various cancers, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kamm, Roger D — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Kamm, Roger D
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.