Understanding how cancer cells evolve through extrachromosomal DNA
Official title: Molecular dissection of extrachromosomal DNA formation, development, and evolution
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10898630 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny circles of DNA, called ecDNA, help cancer cells grow, resist treatment, and spread, using special imaging to watch these processes in real-time, with the goal of finding better ways to treat cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | August 3, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $126,358 |
| NIH project number | 5K99CA279512-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10898630 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients with cancers known to exhibit rapid evolution and treatment resistance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage cancers that do not show signs of evolution or resistance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) in the evolution of cancer cells, focusing on how these circular DNAs contribute to tumor growth, treatment resistance, and metastasis. The project employs advanced imaging techniques to observe ecDNA dynamics in living cells and extends this analysis to organoid models and patient samples. By identifying the genes that influence ecDNA behavior, the research aims to provide insights into the mechanisms driving cancer evolution and improve treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments by targeting the mechanisms of tumor evolution.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tumor evolution through similar molecular approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rose, John Christopher — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Rose, John Christopher
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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.