Investigating how respiratory viral infections may trigger cancer spread in the lungs
Official title: Role of respiratory viral infections and inflammation in promoting metastatic outgrowth in the lung
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11166968 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how respiratory infections like the flu and COVID-19 might wake up hidden cancer cells in the lungs of breast cancer patients, and it aims to find ways to stop this from happening so that patients can stay healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $672,011 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA301643-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11166968 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer patients who have experienced metastasis or are at high risk for metastatic relapse.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-breast cancer types or those who have not had any respiratory viral infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between respiratory viral infections, such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2, and the awakening of dormant cancer cells in the lungs that can lead to metastasis in breast cancer patients. The study aims to understand how inflammation caused by these infections can promote the growth of these dormant cancer cells. By using mouse models, researchers will examine the mechanisms involved in this process, focusing on immune responses and inflammatory signals. The ultimate goal is to identify potential strategies to prevent the awakening of these cancer cells and reduce the risk of metastasis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing breast cancer metastasis triggered by respiratory infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of linking respiratory infections to cancer cell awakening is novel, related studies have shown that inflammation can influence cancer progression.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Degregori, James V — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Degregori, James V
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.