Investigating the cancer extracellular matrix for new treatment targets

Enhanced mass-spectrometry-based approaches for in-depth profiling of the cancer extracellular matrix

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10903967

This study is looking at the supportive structure around tumors to find new proteins that could help us understand cancer better and improve treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10903967 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the cancer extracellular matrix (ECM), a complex structure that supports tumor growth and progression. By using advanced mass-spectrometry techniques, the project aims to identify various proteins and their modifications within the ECM that could serve as new biomarkers or therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from this research as it seeks to uncover vulnerabilities in cancer that could lead to improved treatment strategies. The study involves analyzing the ECM's composition and its role in cancer biology, which could ultimately enhance patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with advanced cancer who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancer or those not diagnosed with cancer may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the discovery of new biomarkers and treatment targets for cancer, potentially improving patient survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in utilizing mass-spectrometry techniques to analyze the ECM, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights into cancer treatment.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Conditions Advanced Cancer
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.