Monitoring cancer cell spread in awake mice using light technology
Continuous, Non-Invasive Optical Monitoring of Circulating Tumor Cell-Mediated Metastasis in Awake Mice
This study is looking at how cancer cells move in the blood of awake mice to help us understand how cancer spreads, using a new method that lets researchers watch these cells in real-time without needing to take blood samples, which could lead to better treatments for cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11015864 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how circulating tumor cells (CTCs) spread in the bloodstream of awake mice, which is crucial for understanding cancer metastasis. The team has developed a novel technique called diffuse in vivo flow cytometry (DiFC) that allows for continuous, non-invasive monitoring of CTCs in real-time. By analyzing the dynamics of CTCs, the research aims to uncover how these cells behave and respond to anti-cancer treatments, potentially leading to better therapeutic strategies. This approach avoids the need for traditional blood sampling, providing a more comprehensive view of cancer progression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers that are known to metastasize, particularly those whose treatment responses need closer monitoring.
Not a fit: Patients with non-metastatic cancers or those not undergoing active treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for monitoring cancer spread and enhancing treatment strategies for patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using DiFC is relatively novel, previous studies have shown promise in monitoring CTCs using other methods, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Northeastern University — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Niedre, Mark Jonathan — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Niedre, Mark Jonathan
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.