Understanding how propionate metabolism affects cancer spread
Official title: Propionate metabolism and cancer
Funded at Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11055311 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the way cancer cells use certain nutrients might help them become more aggressive and spread in the body, which could lead to new ways to treat cancer and help patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | April 25, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $634,435 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA273357-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055311 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cancer, particularly those at risk of metastasis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-metastatic cancers or those not undergoing treatment may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of propionate metabolism in the progression of cancer, particularly how tumor cells transition to a more invasive state known as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). By analyzing changes in proteins, metabolites, and gene expression during this process, the study aims to uncover new mechanisms that contribute to cancer metastasis. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how metabolic changes can influence cancer behavior, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies. The research employs advanced techniques such as proteomics and metabolomics to gather comprehensive data on cellular changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new ways to predict and prevent cancer metastasis, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding metabolic factors in cancer progression, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blenis, John — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Blenis, John
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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.