Understanding how cell polarity affects cancer spread
Apical-basal polarity in tumor progression and metastasis
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-10677660
This study is looking at how the loss of cell structure in certain cancers affects their growth and spread, using special lab-grown tissues to find ways to keep cells organized and possibly stop cancer from spreading.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10677660 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of apical-basal polarity in the progression of epithelial cancers, particularly how its loss contributes to tumor invasion and metastasis. By using advanced 3D organoid cultures derived from both mouse and human epithelial cells, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that regulate this polarity and its interaction with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) factors. The goal is to identify how maintaining cell polarity can serve as a checkpoint to prevent cancer spread, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with epithelial cancers, particularly those at risk of metastasis.
Not a fit: Patients with non-epithelial cancers or those whose tumors do not exhibit loss of apical-basal polarity may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that prevent the spread of cancer, improving outcomes for patients with epithelial tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting cellular polarity mechanisms can influence cancer progression, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YANG, JING — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: YANG, JING
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 below.
Conditions: Epithelial cancer