Understanding how small cell lung cancer adapts and resists treatment

Cellular plasticity gives rise to phenotypic equilibrium in small cell lung carcinoma

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10887640

This study is looking at small cell lung cancer to understand why it grows so quickly and resists treatment, using special models from patients to find new ways to improve care for people facing this tough disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10887640 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC), a highly aggressive form of lung cancer known for its rapid growth and resistance to therapy. By utilizing a diverse collection of patient-derived models, the study aims to explore the genetic and epigenetic factors that contribute to the cancer's behavior and treatment resistance. The researchers will analyze how different cell states within tumors interact and adapt, potentially leading to new insights into how to improve treatment outcomes for patients. The approach includes advanced techniques to observe these cellular changes at a single-cell level, providing a deeper understanding of the tumor's complexity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with small cell lung carcinoma who are undergoing treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of lung cancer or those who are not currently receiving treatment for SCLC may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for small cell lung cancer by targeting its diverse cellular states.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cancer heterogeneity and cellular plasticity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.