Tiny tumor particles that prepare other organs for cancer spread
Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles in the pre-metastatic niche.
['FUNDING_R01'] · CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF LOS ANGELES · NIH-11190888
Researchers are learning how tiny particles released by tumors help melanoma and neuroblastoma spread to other organs.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF LOS ANGELES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11190888 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses mouse models engineered to release natural tumor particles and advanced single-cell methods to see which immune and other cells capture those particles in organs that later develop metastases. The team will compare findings in melanoma and neuroblastoma models and analyze a unique collection of patient blood and tissue samples to link the animal findings to humans. By tracking the particles and the inflammatory signals they trigger, researchers aim to pinpoint early changes that make organs receptive to cancer cells. The work combines lab experiments, detailed cell-level analysis, and patient-derived samples to find potential targets for preventing metastasis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with melanoma or families of children with neuroblastoma who can donate blood or tumor tissue at Children's Hospital Los Angeles or partner clinics.
Not a fit: Patients without melanoma or neuroblastoma, or those unable to provide samples at the study sites, are unlikely to take part or benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal early signals that doctors could block to prevent or delay metastatic spread.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have shown tumor-derived vesicles can prime organs for metastasis, but translating these findings to patients is still early-stage.
Where this research is happening
LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES
- CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF LOS ANGELES — LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DECLERCK, YVES A — CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF LOS ANGELES
- Study coordinator: DECLERCK, YVES A
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.
Conditions: Cancer Patient, Cancers