Targeting interactions between lung cancer cells and brain cells to prevent brain metastasis

Targeting tumor-neural cell interactions to inhibit lung cancer brain metastasis

['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11037894

This study is looking at how lung cancer cells connect with brain cells to help the cancer spread to the brain, and it's hoping to find new treatments that can stop this from happening, which could help patients with lung cancer who are at risk of brain metastases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11037894 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how lung cancer cells interact with brain cells to promote the spread of cancer to the brain. By understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in this process, the researchers aim to develop new therapies that can effectively inhibit brain metastasis. The study focuses on the role of specific proteins that facilitate these interactions and explores the potential of drugs that can cross the blood-brain barrier to disrupt this process. Patients with lung cancer may benefit from insights gained in this research, leading to improved treatment options for brain metastases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with lung cancer, particularly those who have or are at high risk for brain metastases.

Not a fit: Patients with lung cancer who do not have brain metastases or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve survival and quality of life for lung cancer patients with brain metastases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar molecular pathways to inhibit cancer metastasis, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.