Understanding how cancer cells change and spread over time
Official title: Mapping the single cell state basis of metastasis in space and time
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10928210 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 12, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $645,588 |
| NIH project number | 5U01CA284090-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10928210 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those at risk of metastasis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those who do not have breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ewald, Andrew Josef — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Ewald, Andrew Josef
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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.