Understanding how mechanical factors influence cancer spread and growth in different organs

Admin: Mechanical determinants of organ-selective metastatic colonization, dormancy and outgrowth

NIH-funded research Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-10911868

This study looks at how the physical characteristics of cancer cells and their surroundings influence how they spread to other parts of the body and go into a resting state before growing again, with the goal of finding better ways to prevent or treat metastatic cancer for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cambridge, United States)
Project IDNIH-10911868 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanical factors that affect how cancer cells spread to different organs, enter a dormant state, and later grow. A collaborative team of experts from prestigious institutions will analyze data and develop models to better understand these processes. By focusing on the physical properties of cancer cells and their environment, the research aims to uncover new insights into metastatic behavior. Patients may benefit from improved strategies for preventing or treating metastatic cancer based on these findings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with metastatic cancer, particularly those with breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with localized cancer that has not spread to other organs may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent cancer from spreading and improve patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cancer metastasis through mechanical factors, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Cambridge, 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.
Conditions Breast Cancer PatientCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.