Understanding how skin cells affect melanoma spread
Official title: Investigating the epidermal microenvironment in melanoblast migration and invasion: a novel approach to understanding invasive melanoma
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11002007 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how skin cells and melanoblasts work together to help us understand how melanoma, a serious skin cancer, spreads, with the hope of finding better ways to prevent or treat it for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AR081690-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002007 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with melanoma or those at high risk for developing this type of skin cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-melanoma skin cancers or those without any skin cancer history may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between skin cells and melanoblasts, which are crucial for understanding how melanoma, a deadly skin cancer, spreads. By examining the molecular dynamics within the epidermal microenvironment, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to melanoma invasion. The approach includes analyzing cell communication and adhesion properties, which could reveal new insights into preventing or treating this aggressive cancer. Patients may benefit from improved surgical techniques and interventions based on these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for preventing and treating invasive melanoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding melanoma through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this research.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Richards, Denay — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Richards, Denay
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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.