Understanding how nerve cells influence the spread of breast cancer
Project-1: Defining the mechanisms by which neurons promote breast cancer metastasis
This study is looking at how nerve cells in the area around breast cancer tumors might help the cancer spread, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding more about how nerves and tumors interact, which could lead to new treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10909178 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neurons in the tumor microenvironment of breast cancer, focusing on how they may promote metastasis. The team will explore the signaling mechanisms between tumor endothelial cells and cancer cells, particularly examining a molecule called Slit2 that appears to be crucial for this process. By using advanced techniques such as 3D co-culture systems and in vivo experiments, researchers aim to identify specific neuronal populations that influence the metastatic behavior of breast cancer. This work could lead to new insights into the interactions between nerves and tumors, potentially revealing novel therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with aggressive or metastatic forms of the disease.
Not a fit: Patients with non-breast cancers or those who are not currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating breast cancer metastasis.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of nerves in cancer progression is an emerging field, this specific approach to studying their influence on breast cancer metastasis is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Rockefeller University — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tavazoie, Sohail F. — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Tavazoie, Sohail F.
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.