NIH-funded research R37 grant

Understanding how certain proteins are released in metastatic cancer

Official title: Novel molecular mechanism for extracellular release of proteins implicated in metastatic cancer

Funded at Saint Louis University · NIH-10880671 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain proteins are released from cells in unusual ways when they are under stress, like in cancerous tumors, to find new treatment options that could help improve care for cancer patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSaint Louis University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project startAugust 15, 2022
Project endJune 30, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$394,314
NIH project number5R37CA265877-03
Project IDNIH-10880671 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients with metastatic cancer, particularly those experiencing hypoxic conditions.

Less likely to help

Patients with early-stage cancer or those not experiencing cellular stress may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific proteins, which play crucial roles inside and outside of cells, are released through unconventional pathways rather than the typical secretion routes. It focuses on how these pathways are activated during cellular stress, such as in hypoxic conditions found in metastatic tumors. By exploring the molecular mechanisms that regulate the release of these proteins, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies that could improve treatment outcomes for cancer patients. The study employs advanced techniques to analyze the interactions between proteins and cellular membranes under various conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that better control protein release in cancer, potentially improving treatment effectiveness.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms being studied may be novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding protein secretion pathways in cancer.

Where this research is happening

  • Saint Louis University
    Saint Louis, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Dastvan, Reza — Saint Louis University
  • Study coordinator: Dastvan, Reza

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.