Understanding how melanoma spreads and survives in the brain
Mechanisms of perivascular melanoma dispersal and survival in the brain
This study is looking at how melanoma cells spread to the brain and survive there, focusing on how they interact with blood vessels in the brain, with the goal of finding new ways to treat or prevent this type of cancer from spreading.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11002678 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which malignant melanoma cells spread to and survive in the brain. It focuses on the interactions between melanoma cells and brain blood vessels, particularly how these cells use the blood vessels to support their growth and invasion. The study aims to uncover specific signaling pathways that are activated when melanoma cells come into contact with brain endothelial cells, which could lead to new treatment strategies for brain metastases. By understanding these processes, the research hopes to identify potential targets for therapies that could prevent or treat melanoma spread in the brain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with stage IV melanoma, particularly those who have developed brain metastases.
Not a fit: Patients with melanoma that has not metastasized to the brain 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 new therapies that improve outcomes for patients with melanoma that has spread to the brain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar mechanisms of cancer metastasis, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Sarah C — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Wang, Sarah C
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.