Understanding how skin cancer develops from UV damage

Eco-evolutionary drivers of clonal dynamics during UV-induced skin carcinogenesis (PQ3)

NIH-funded research H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst · NIH-11051174

This study looks at how regular skin can change into precancerous spots and then into skin cancer due to sun exposure, helping us understand the steps involved in developing cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, which can help people at risk of skin cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project IDNIH-11051174 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the progression of skin cancer, specifically how normal skin tissue evolves into precancerous lesions and eventually malignant tumors due to UV radiation exposure. By applying ecological and evolutionary principles, the study aims to uncover the clonal dynamics and selective pressures that influence cancer development over time. The research focuses on cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, which provides a clear progression pathway from actinic keratosis to invasive carcinoma, making it an ideal model for understanding these processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with actinic keratosis or those at high risk for developing skin cancer due to UV exposure.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of UV exposure or skin lesions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for skin cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding cancer progression through similar ecological and evolutionary approaches, particularly in skin cancers.

Where this research is happening

Tampa, 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.
Conditions Cancer Causing AgentsCancer CenterCancer Inductioncancer initiationcancer microenvironment
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.