Understanding how certain tumor cells survive and promote growth in osteosarcoma metastasis

Targeting cooperative mechanisms of metastatic colonization in osteosarcoma

NIH-funded research Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-10916186

This study is looking at how certain tumor cells in osteosarcoma change when they reach the lungs, which helps them survive and grow, and it aims to find out if chemotherapy might be leaving these cells unharmed, potentially leading to more cancer later on.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, United States)
Project IDNIH-10916186 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific tumor cells in osteosarcoma adapt to the lung environment, which is crucial for their survival and growth. The study focuses on a small group of tumor cells, referred to as 'anchor' cells, that stop dividing and release inflammatory signals, altering the lung tissue to support the growth of other tumor cells. By examining these mechanisms, the research aims to determine if chemotherapy treatments inadvertently leave these anchor cells unharmed, allowing them to contribute to future metastases. The project is structured into three main aims to rigorously test these hypotheses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with osteosarcoma, particularly those experiencing metastasis to the lungs.

Not a fit: Patients with osteosarcoma that has not metastasized or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for osteosarcoma by targeting the mechanisms that allow tumor cells to survive and proliferate in the lungs.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tumor cell behavior in metastatic environments, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.