NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Mapping how cancer spreads in the body

Official title: Towards a Comprehensive, Spatiotemporal Roadmap of Cancer Metastasis

Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10910665 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how small cell lung cancer spreads in the body, with the goal of finding new ways to treat it, so patients can better understand their condition and have more options for care.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endAugust 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$1,480,500
NIH project number1DP2CA301079-01
Project IDNIH-10910665 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with small cell lung cancer who are experiencing or at risk of metastasis.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those with other types of lung cancer may not receive direct benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex process of cancer metastasis, particularly focusing on small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which is known for its aggressive nature and poor survival rates. By examining how cancer cells evolve, survive in the bloodstream, and establish themselves in new locations, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that drive metastasis. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the interactions between cancer cells and their environment over time, providing insights that could lead to new treatment strategies. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of their disease and potential new therapies developed from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with metastatic cancer, particularly those with small cell lung cancer.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cancer metastasis, but this approach aims to provide a more comprehensive and detailed mapping of the process, making it a novel endeavor.

Where this research is happening

  • Columbia University Health Sciences
    New York, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Yang, Dian — Columbia University Health Sciences
  • Study coordinator: Yang, Dian

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.