New treatments for brain metastasis in cancer patients

Developing new therapeutic strategies for brain metastasis

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11008918

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11008918 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients diagnosed with melanoma, lung, or breast adenocarcinoma who are at risk of developing brain metastasis.

Not a fit: Patients with brain metastasis from cancers other than melanoma, lung, or breast adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.