Mapping the early stages of skin cancer development
Pre-cancer atlas of skin cancer
This study is looking at how skin cancer, especially melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma, develops over time by examining skin samples to see how skin cells change and how the immune system interacts with these changes before cancer starts, helping us understand the journey from early signs to full-blown cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10995082 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to create a detailed atlas that tracks the early development of skin cancer, particularly focusing on melanoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. By utilizing skin samples, which are easily accessible, the study will analyze how skin cells accumulate mutations over time and how these changes relate to cancer progression. The research will also explore the role of the immune system in this process, particularly how it interacts with tumors before they become cancerous. Through various molecular assays, the project seeks to understand the transition from pre-cancerous lesions to full-blown cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of skin lesions or those at high risk for developing skin cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have any skin lesions or are not at risk for skin cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection and prevention strategies for skin cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tumor evolution and immune interactions in other cancer types, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shain, Alan Hunter — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Shain, Alan Hunter
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.