Understanding how cancer cells change and spread over time

Mapping the single cell state basis of metastasis in space and time

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10928210

This study is looking at how breast cancer cells change and spread in the body, using special techniques to see how they behave in different environments, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the disease and improve outcomes for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10928210 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the dynamic changes in cancer cells that contribute to their ability to spread, particularly focusing on breast cancer. By utilizing advanced machine learning and systems biology techniques, the study aims to assess how cancer cells reactivate developmental programs in different spatial and temporal contexts. Researchers will analyze both normal and cancerous mammary tissue using innovative 3D culture assays to observe cell behavior and identify potential targets for treatment. The goal is to map the cell states involved in metastasis and understand how these changes correlate with patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those at risk of metastasis.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those who do not have breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating metastatic breast cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results using similar approaches to understand cancer metastasis, indicating a potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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 Breast Cancer
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.