Perivascular plasticity in metastatic microenvironments

Division Of Basic Sciences - Nci

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

Despite their critical role in metastatic progression, pericytes are relatively understudied components of the metastatic microenvironment. This is at least in part due to a lack of experimental model systems that accurately reflect pericyte phenotypic plasticity that is observed in vivo. In the past year, we have developed an ex vivo culturing platform that reflects pericyte function in homeostatic and disease conditions. Using this model system, we are interrogating molecular mechanisms by which pericytes modulate metastatic tumor cell function. Having developed our novel culturing platform, we have uncovered an unexpected role for pericytes to promote tumor dormancy. Together, these efforts have resulted in two peer-reviewed manuscripts, collaborations with intramural and extramural partners, and more findings still emerging.