Understanding how mechanical properties of breast cancer cells affect their spread

MECHANOSURVEILLANCE IN BREAST CANCER METASTASIS

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10914827

This study looks at how the stiffness of breast cancer cells affects their ability to spread and hide from the immune system, with the hope of finding new ways to help the immune system fight metastatic cancer better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10914827 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the stiffness of breast cancer cells influences their ability to spread and evade the immune system. By examining the mechanical properties of these cells, the study aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies that could enhance immune responses against metastatic cancer. The approach involves analyzing the relationship between cell stiffness and immune activation, focusing on specific molecular factors that regulate these processes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative treatments targeting the physical characteristics of cancer cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those 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 treatment strategies that improve outcomes for patients with metastatic breast cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting the mechanical properties of cancer cells, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 CancerBreast Cancer Cell
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.