Understanding how tumors spread in the body

Imaging mechanisms of metastatic tumor formation in situ

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10903846

This study is looking at how certain types of childhood cancers, like sarcoma and melanoma, spread in the body, using tiny zebrafish to see how cancer cells move and form new tumors, so we can better understand what happens during this process.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10903846 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological processes that lead to the formation of metastatic tumors, particularly focusing on pediatric sarcoma and melanoma. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to observe how changes in cell signals and lipid metabolism influence tumor spread. The research utilizes zebrafish embryos to visualize the behavior of cancer cells in real-time as they migrate and form new tumors in different parts of the body. This innovative approach allows for a detailed understanding of the mechanisms behind cancer metastasis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pediatric patients diagnosed with sarcoma or melanoma.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those with cancers not related to sarcoma or melanoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating metastatic cancer in patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using imaging techniques to study cancer metastasis, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

DALLAS, 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 →

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.