Understanding how lymphatic malformations can become a serious cancer
Mechanisms of progression of vascular malformation to lymphangiosarcoma
This research explores why some benign lymphatic vessel growths can turn into a dangerous cancer, aiming to find new ways to prevent and treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11125759 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have blood and lymphatic vessels, and sometimes cells in these vessels grow abnormally, leading to conditions like lymphatic malformation (LM). While LM is usually harmless, a small number of patients develop a very aggressive cancer called lymphangiosarcoma (LAS). We are working to uncover the specific changes in cells that cause LM to progress to LAS. By understanding these changes, we hope to develop better ways to stop this deadly disease from forming and to treat it more effectively.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with lymphatic malformation, especially adults aged 21 and older, who are at risk for or have developed lymphangiosarcoma, are the focus of this research.
Not a fit: Patients without lymphatic malformation or lymphangiosarcoma, or those with other types of vascular anomalies, may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating lymphangiosarcoma, a highly aggressive cancer.
How similar studies have performed: This research aims to fill a significant knowledge gap, as very little is currently known about the specific mechanisms driving the progression of lymphatic malformation to lymphangiosarcoma.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guan, Jun-Lin — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Guan, Jun-Lin
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.