New treatments for brain metastasis in cancer patients
Official title: Developing new therapeutic strategies for brain metastasis
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11008918 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cancer spreads to the brain, especially in patients with melanoma, lung cancer, and breast cancer, to see if treatments for Alzheimer’s disease can help fight these brain tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $548,753 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA277425-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11008918 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients diagnosed with melanoma, lung, or breast adenocarcinoma who are at risk of developing brain metastasis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with brain metastasis from cancers other than melanoma, lung, or breast adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind brain metastasis in cancer patients, particularly those with melanoma, lung, and breast adenocarcinomas. By developing a model using patient-derived cultures, the researchers aim to understand how brain metastases differ from other types of metastases. They are exploring the role of amyloid-beta (Aβ) in brain metastasis and hypothesize that existing Alzheimer’s treatments targeting Aβ can be repurposed to combat brain metastasis. The study employs advanced techniques such as proteomics and in vitro assays to identify potential therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients with brain metastasis, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in repurposing Alzheimer’s treatments for different conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hernando, Eva — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Hernando, Eva
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How brain support cells' recycling affects breast cancer spread to the brain
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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.