Why some small tumors switch from dormancy to active growth
Instability of Cancer Cell States in Tumor progression (ICCS)
['FUNDING_R01'] · INSTITUTE FOR SYSTEMS BIOLOGY · NIH-11174440
The team looks at whether changes in gene activity in individual cancer cells can signal when a small or dormant tumor is about to start growing, which could help people with early-stage or dormant cancers.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | INSTITUTE FOR SYSTEMS BIOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11174440 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are measuring gene activity in single cancer cells (single-cell transcriptomes) to find signs of “cell state instability” that might warn a tumor is poised to start growing. They combine mathematical theory about “critical transitions” with lab experiments using cultured cells and animal models to change tumor cell density and test whether a computed signal (called IC) rises before escape from dormancy. The work focuses on tiny lesions that may either stay dormant or begin steady growth and seeks a measurable early-warning marker in the cells' gene expression. If successful, these markers could guide monitoring or early interventions for people with small or dormant tumors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with very small, early-stage, or previously dormant tumors or those being monitored for recurrence would be the most relevant candidates for future tests based on this work.
Not a fit: People with advanced, widespread, or rapidly progressing metastatic cancer are unlikely to see direct benefit from this basic, early-stage research in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could help doctors detect which small tumors are likely to start growing so patients could get closer monitoring or earlier treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Applying critical-transition theory to single-cell cancer data is a relatively new, theory-driven approach with some supporting observations but limited clinical proof so far.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- INSTITUTE FOR SYSTEMS BIOLOGY — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HUANG, SUI — INSTITUTE FOR SYSTEMS BIOLOGY
- Study coordinator: HUANG, SUI
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: Cancers