Measuring early immune changes in lymph nodes that signal melanoma relapse
Quantitative assessment of pre-metastatic immune subversion as a risk factor for melanoma relapse
This work looks at immune changes in the lymph nodes to spot and stop melanoma from coming back.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11169052 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team studies the sentinel lymph node—the first node draining a melanoma—to see how tiny tumor-derived particles carried in lymph alter immune cells. They will analyze human tumor and lymph node samples alongside laboratory experiments to trace specific molecular cargos and immune signals. The approach aims to define how a 'pre-metastatic niche' forms and which markers predict later relapse. Findings will be used to point to tests or treatments that could reverse immune suppression and block early spread.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people with melanoma who are undergoing sentinel lymph node biopsy or who have tumors at risk for regional spread.
Not a fit: Patients without melanoma or those with widespread metastatic disease are unlikely to get direct benefit from this specific work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could produce markers to predict melanoma relapse earlier and identify ways to prevent tumor cells from taking hold in lymph nodes.
How similar studies have performed: Related studies on tumor-derived vesicles and lymph node immune changes have shown promising signals, but translating these findings into clinical tests or therapies remains largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Markovic, Svetomir Nenad — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Markovic, Svetomir Nenad
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.