Understanding how breast cancer spreads to bones

Spatiotemporal modeling of cancer-niche interactions in breast cancer bone metastasis

['FUNDING_U01'] · METHODIST HOSPITAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE · NIH-10923871

This study is looking at how breast cancer cells behave in the bones after the main tumor is removed, especially in the early stages of spreading, to find ways to stop them from growing there and help improve treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMETHODIST HOSPITAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10923871 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how breast cancer cells interact with the bone environment, particularly focusing on the early stages of bone metastasis that occur years after the primary tumor is removed. By examining the different niches within the bone, such as the perivascular and osteogenic areas, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow cancer cells to survive and potentially grow in these locations. Advanced imaging techniques will be used to visualize these interactions and identify potential therapeutic targets to prevent the progression of metastasis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer patients who are at risk of developing bone metastasis, particularly those who have undergone surgery for primary tumors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have breast cancer or those whose cancer has already progressed to advanced metastatic stages may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent breast cancer from spreading to the bones, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding cancer metastasis through similar approaches, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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.