Using exosome profiles to predict where breast cancer may spread

Surface exosome integrin profiling to predict organotropic metastasis of breast cancer

NIH-funded research University of Memphis · NIH-10654221

This study is looking at tiny particles from tumors in your blood to see if they can help doctors predict where breast cancer might spread in the body, which could lead to better ways to understand and manage your cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Memphis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Memphis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10654221 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific proteins found on the surface of exosomes, which are tiny particles released by tumors, can indicate where breast cancer might spread in the body. By analyzing these exosomes in blood samples, researchers aim to identify patterns that correlate with metastasis to organs like the lungs, liver, and brain. The study focuses on developing sensitive and specific technologies to detect these biomarkers, which could lead to better predictions of cancer progression. Patients' exosome profiles will be evaluated to enhance understanding of their cancer's behavior and potential spread.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with breast cancer who are undergoing treatment or monitoring for potential metastasis.

Not a fit: Patients with non-malignant breast conditions or those who have not been diagnosed with breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable earlier and more accurate predictions of breast cancer metastasis, leading to tailored treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using exosomal biomarkers for cancer prediction, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Memphis, 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.
Conditions Breast CancerCancersneoplasm/cancer
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.