Investigating how tumor cell clusters affect the spread of aggressive ovarian cancer

The role of multi-cellular aggregates vs. individual tumor cells in metastasis of high-grade serous ovarian cancer

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11129255

This study is looking at how groups of cancer cells behave differently from single cancer cells in spreading high-grade serous ovarian cancer, with the hope that understanding this could help find better treatments for patients facing this and similar aggressive cancers.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11129255 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of multi-cellular aggregates versus individual tumor cells in the spread of high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). By developing in vitro models, the study aims to analyze how these tumor structures influence invasion and metastasis, particularly in uterine serous carcinoma, a related aggressive cancer. The research will explore the mechanisms behind tumor cell behavior, including the role of specific proteins that may affect cancer progression. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatment strategies for these aggressive cancers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with high-grade serous ovarian cancer or uterine serous carcinoma, particularly those with advanced disease.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who do not have high-grade serous ovarian cancer or uterine serous carcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that improve outcomes for patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer and uterine serous carcinoma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding tumor behavior in related cancers, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
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.