Understanding how tumor and immune cells interact during cancer spread to the abdomen
Deciphering the role of tumor-macrophage crosstalk during metastatic dissemination to the peritoneum
This study is looking at how cancer cells and immune cells called macrophages work together when cancer spreads in the abdomen, especially in long-term melanoma survivors, to find new ways to improve cancer treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11083074 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between tumor cells and macrophages, a type of immune cell, during the spread of cancer to the peritoneum, which is the lining of the abdominal cavity. By analyzing the immune responses of long-term cancer survivors, particularly those with melanoma who experienced skin-related immune reactions, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to effective anti-tumor immunity. The research employs advanced techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics to characterize immune cell behavior and responses in patients. The ultimate goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies that could enhance cancer treatment outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients with melanoma who have experienced immune-related adverse events, as well as those with other cancers that have not responded well to current therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers or those who do not have immune-related adverse events may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immunotherapy treatments for various cancers, potentially increasing survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in melanoma, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights for other cancer types.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Jichang — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Han, Jichang
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 below.