Thursday, March 12, 2020

Specifically, the research seeks to target the interaction between cancer cells and sensory nerves, using targeted radioactive therapies that destroy the bone metastasis but are not harmful to normal tissue, thus reducing the risk of harmful side effects. To accomplish this, we will use our innovative mouse models that enable us to measure cancer bone pain, tumor growth, and nerve distraction – all in the same animal. Our studies will shed light on bone metastases from a new and untested perspective, by targeting the interactions that occur between cancer and nerve cells.  This work will inform new treatment strategies to address both cancer-related bone pain and bone metastatic progression, and could be a breakthrough for breast cancer patients with bone metastases. If successful, our project could lead to a clinically feasible treatment strategy that would improve the quality of life for cancer patients with bone metastases, and could be available to patients within the next decade.