Understanding how cancer spreads to the brain

Multi-cellular interactions defining the human brain metastatic niche

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11074684

This study is looking at how lung cancer spreads to the brain in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, aiming to find out what makes this happen so that we can improve treatments and help patients feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11074684 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind brain metastasis, particularly in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. By analyzing cellular interactions and the microenvironment of brain tumors, the study aims to uncover the biological factors that contribute to the spread of cancer to the brain. Using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, researchers will identify key drivers of brain metastasis and explore how these factors affect treatment responses. The goal is to enhance our understanding of brain metastasis to improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with advanced non-small cell lung cancer who are experiencing brain metastasis.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancer or those whose cancer has not spread to the brain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatment strategies for patients with brain metastasis, potentially improving their prognosis and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cancer metastasis through similar cellular and molecular approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 Advanced Canceranti-cancer therapy
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.