Understanding how breast cancer spreads and resists treatment
Official title: Evolutionary dynamics and microenvironmental determinants of metastatic breast cancer
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10905002 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how breast cancer spreads and why some treatments don't work, using special lab models made from patient samples to find new ways to improve treatment for people with breast cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | September 14, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,484,455 |
| NIH project number | 5U54CA261719-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10905002 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer who are undergoing treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those who do not have metastatic disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the factors that contribute to the spread of breast cancer and its resistance to therapies. It focuses on the timing of when cancer cells metastasize and how interactions between cancer cells and their surrounding environment influence this process. The study utilizes advanced computational models and a unique collection of patient-derived organoids to explore the heterogeneity of breast cancer and its response to treatments. By analyzing these models and patient samples, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for metastatic breast cancer, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results using similar approaches to understand cancer metastasis and resistance, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Curtis, Christina N — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Curtis, Christina N
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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.