Understanding how certain stem cells in bone marrow affect cancer spread to bones
Role of Perivascular Mesenchymal Stem Cells (pMSCs) in the Bone Marrow Niche and the Extracellular Matrix in the Control of Skeletal Metastasis
This study is looking at how certain stem cells in the bone marrow might help control the spread of cancer to the bones, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent or slow down this process for people who have cancer that has spread to their bones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171550 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of perivascular mesenchymal stem cells (pMSCs) in the bone marrow and their influence on the spread of cancer to the bones. By creating a unique model that mimics the human bone marrow environment, researchers aim to understand how these stem cells can control the invasion of cancer cells into the bone. The study will explore the potential of targeting specific genes in pMSCs to prevent or reduce the metastatic process, offering insights into new therapeutic strategies for patients with bone metastases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that commonly metastasize to the bone, such as breast, prostate, or lung cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with localized cancers that do not spread to the bones may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent cancer from spreading to the bones, improving outcomes for patients with metastatic cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting stem cells to control cancer spread, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Cleveland, United States
- Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Somoza, Rodrigo Alfonso — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Somoza, Rodrigo Alfonso
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.