Understanding how small cell lung cancer spreads and resists treatment

Inter-metastatic divergency in small cell lung cancer; implications for the design of future immunotherapies

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10896914

This study is looking at how small cell lung cancer can act differently in various parts of the body and why it sometimes doesn't respond to treatments, with the goal of finding better ways to help patients through the use of donated tumor samples.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10896914 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complexities of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) by examining how different tumor sites within the body can behave differently and resist treatment. The team will utilize a unique Rapid Tissue Donation program, allowing them to study tissues from patients who have donated their tumors. By analyzing these samples and using specific models, the researchers aim to uncover the reasons behind the cancer's resistance to immunotherapy and develop new treatment strategies. This work focuses on the immune system's response to the cancer and how it can be improved.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with small cell lung cancer who are willing to donate their tumor tissues for study.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage small cell lung cancer or those who are not undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapies for patients with small cell lung cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding tumor heterogeneity and its impact on treatment resistance, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.