Understanding how melanoma starts and grows

States and transitions in the initiation and maintenance of melanoma

['FUNDING_P01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-11016819

This study is looking at how melanoma, a type of skin cancer, starts and grows by using special mouse models to explore the genes and other factors involved, so we can better understand how melanoma cells avoid control and form tumors.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_P01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11016819 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex processes that lead to the initiation and maintenance of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. By using genetically engineered mouse models, the study aims to uncover both genetic and non-genetic factors that contribute to tumor formation. Researchers will analyze various cell states and their transitions using advanced techniques like single-cell transcriptomics and computational methods. This approach will help identify the mechanisms that allow melanoma cells to evade growth control and develop into tumors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for melanoma, including those with a family history of skin cancer or specific genetic mutations.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced melanoma who are already undergoing treatment may not benefit directly from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating melanoma by targeting the underlying mechanisms of tumor initiation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using mouse models to understand cancer mechanisms, indicating that this approach is promising and builds on established methodologies.

Where this research is happening

IRVINE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.