Understanding how ovarian cancer cells resist treatment

Metabolic reprogramming of the tumor microenvironment and therapy resistance

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · NIH-11159794

This work explores how ovarian cancer cells change their metabolism and interact with surrounding tissues to resist chemotherapy, aiming to find new ways to make treatments more effective.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11159794 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Ovarian cancer that has spread, especially within the abdomen, is very challenging to treat, and many patients experience the cancer returning. This research looks closely at how the cancer cells interact with the healthy cells around them, called the tumor microenvironment, and how these interactions help the cancer grow and become resistant to chemotherapy. We are particularly interested in how cancer cells change their energy use, or metabolism, and how fat cells in the abdomen might fuel cancer growth. By understanding these complex processes, we hope to uncover new targets for medicines that could make current treatments work better and prevent recurrence. This could lead to more effective strategies for patients facing advanced ovarian cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is foundational for patients with metastatic ovarian cancer, especially those who experience recurrence or resistance to chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those whose ovarian cancer has not spread may not directly benefit from this specific research focus.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that overcome chemotherapy resistance and improve outcomes for patients with advanced ovarian cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this laboratory has successfully identified key factors in ovarian cancer metastasis and resistance, building a strong foundation for this ongoing research.

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.

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.