Understanding how the tumor environment affects melanoma treatment outcomes

Reprogramming of the stromal microenvironment in melanoma progression and therapeutic escape

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI · NIH-11078836

This study is looking at how the cells and structures around melanoma tumors affect how well treatments work, especially focusing on certain cells that might make it harder for therapies to succeed, so we can better understand why some patients don’t respond to their medications.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11078836 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the surrounding tumor environment, particularly the stromal cells and extracellular matrix, influences the effectiveness of melanoma therapies. It focuses on the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts and their interaction with targeted therapies like BRAF inhibitors. By exploring how these fibroblasts change in response to treatment, the research aims to uncover mechanisms of drug resistance and therapeutic escape in melanoma patients. The study employs advanced techniques to analyze cellular behavior and signaling pathways in the tumor microenvironment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are melanoma patients undergoing treatment with BRAF inhibitors or those experiencing treatment resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with melanoma who are not receiving targeted therapies or those with early-stage disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies that overcome drug resistance in melanoma patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting the tumor microenvironment can enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

CINCINNATI, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Control

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.