Understanding Exosomes in Breast Cancer Spread
Exosome secretion in breast cancer progression
['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY · NIH-11044054
This work explores how tiny particles called exosomes help breast cancer grow and spread throughout the body.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11044054 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Exosomes are tiny packages released by cells that carry messages, and in breast cancer, they appear to play a significant role in how cancer cells move and establish new tumors. We are looking closely at how specific molecules on these exosomes, called integrins, might guide cancer to certain locations or help create an environment where cancer can thrive. Our previous work identified fundamental ways exosomes control tumor aggressiveness, including promoting cancer cell migration and helping assemble supportive tissue around tumors. By understanding these processes, we hope to find new ways to stop breast cancer from spreading.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with breast cancer, particularly those at risk for or experiencing metastasis, could eventually benefit from the knowledge gained from this research.
Not a fit: Patients without breast cancer would not directly benefit from this specific research focus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent breast cancer from spreading or to treat existing metastatic disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has shown that exosomes influence tumor aggressiveness, suggesting this approach builds on existing knowledge.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY — Nashville, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEAVER, ALISSA M — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WEAVER, ALISSA M
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: Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Cell