New tools to visualize how cancer cells communicate using chemokines
Official title: Integrated Imaging Tools for Intercellular Chemokine Signalling
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10903923 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules called chemokines affect cancer cells and their interactions with other cells, using new imaging tools to see these processes in real-time, with the hope of improving cancer treatments that target these signals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | August 9, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $207,850 |
| NIH project number | 5R61CA281657-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10903923 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with breast cancer or other cancers where chemokine signaling plays a significant role.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancer does not involve chemokine signaling may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how chemokines, which are signaling molecules, influence the behavior of cancer cells and their interactions with surrounding cells. By developing advanced imaging tools, the research aims to track the distribution and activity of these chemokines in real-time within living systems. This approach will help uncover the complex dynamics of chemokine signaling that regulate cancer cell growth, movement, and immune response. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the effectiveness of therapies targeting chemokine signaling in cancer treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by improving our understanding of how to manipulate chemokine signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting chemokine signaling in cancer, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luker, Gary D — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Luker, Gary D
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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.