Understanding stem-like cells that drive prostate cancer
A transdisciplinary approach for dissecting stem cell states in prostate cancer
['FUNDING_U01'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11174367
This project looks for molecular signs of stem-like cells in prostate tumors to help men with advanced or treatment-resistant prostate cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_U01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11174367 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are using math and physics-based data tools alongside lab experiments to find a molecular signature called CasPro that marks stem-like cancer cells. They will test these signatures in genetically engineered mouse models and run functional stem-cell assays in the lab. The team will also study human prostate tumor samples, especially from men with castration-resistant prostate cancer, to confirm findings. The combined computational and experimental approach aims to pinpoint cells that sustain tumor growth and suggest targets for new treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are men with prostate cancer—particularly those with treatment-resistant castration‑resistant prostate cancer—who can provide tumor tissue or other samples for research.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage, low-risk prostate cancer or those unable or unwilling to provide tumor samples are unlikely to see direct benefits from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new targets for treatments that specifically remove cancer-driving stem-like cells and improve outcomes for men with advanced prostate cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Some studies have suggested stem-like cells exist in tumors, but combining topological and random-matrix computational tools with lab validation in prostate cancer is a novel and not yet proven approach.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RABADAN, RAUL — COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: RABADAN, RAUL
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.
Conditions: Cancer Biology