Understanding how leader cells help breast tumor cells move together
Leader cell development and function in Breast Tumor Collective Migration
This study looks at how certain breast cancer cells team up to spread to other parts of the body, and by understanding this process, we hope to find new ways to stop their movement and improve treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11057691 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how groups of breast cancer cells, known as leader cells, work together to invade surrounding tissues and spread throughout the body. By studying both human breast cancer samples and mouse models, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow these cells to migrate collectively, which is crucial for understanding metastasis. The approach involves examining the interactions between tumor cells and their surrounding environment, focusing on how these leader cells guide the movement of the entire group. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to disrupt this collective migration, potentially leading to new treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with aggressive forms of the disease that are prone to metastasis.
Not a fit: Patients with non-invasive breast conditions or those who are not diagnosed with breast cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent the spread of breast cancer by targeting the mechanisms of collective cell migration.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding collective cell migration in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Longmore, Gregory D. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Longmore, Gregory D.
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.