Understanding highly adaptable cancer cells in lung adenocarcinoma

Determining the role and function of a high plasticity cell state in lung adenocarcinoma

NIH-funded research Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research · NIH-11138420

This work explores how certain highly adaptable cancer cells contribute to lung adenocarcinoma growth and resistance to treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11138420 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

We are learning about special cancer cells in lung adenocarcinoma that can change their characteristics, which helps tumors grow and resist therapy. Our team first found these adaptable cells in mouse lung tumors and then confirmed their presence in human lung adenocarcinoma samples. We believe these cells are key drivers of cancer progression and treatment failure. By understanding how these cells work, we hope to find new ways to fight lung cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational work focuses on understanding cancer biology and does not currently involve direct patient participation, but future clinical applications would target patients with lung adenocarcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients whose cancer does not involve this specific type of highly adaptable cell state may not directly benefit from therapies developed from this particular line of research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatment strategies that target these adaptable cancer cells, potentially improving outcomes for patients with lung adenocarcinoma.

How similar studies have performed: While the concept of tumor plasticity is recognized, this research aims to specifically define and target a newly identified high plasticity cell state in lung adenocarcinoma, representing a 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 Advanced CancerAnti-Cancer Agents
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.