Research Collaboration Targets Cancer Spread Prevention

Researchers at the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) and Southern Illinois University School of Medicine (SIU) have launched a joint study investigating the cellular mechanisms that drive cancer spread, with a focus on cell-to-cell interactions. The project, led by Dr. Natalya Zinkevich, assistant professor of integrated sciences at UIS, and Dr. Sophia Ran, professor of medical microbiology, immunology, and cell biology at SIU, examines how immune cells from bone marrow interact with specialized lymphatic cells and how these interactions may contribute to cancer progression.

Using fluorescent microscopy, the team can observe the interactions between these cell types in real-time. Each cell type emits a distinct color—one red and the other green—and when they fuse, they create a yellow fluorescence. This visual marker allows scientists to measure how often cell fusion occurs, its role in tumor formation, and how potential cancer therapies might influence this process.

“Our goal is to understand how cancer spreads and identify ways to prevent tumor growth,” Zinkevich said. “As part of this project, students will also gain hands-on experience in cell culture techniques at UIS, preparing them for additional research opportunities at SIU during the summer.”

Dr. Ran emphasized the importance of this partnership in expanding research opportunities for students and strengthening inter-institutional collaboration. “I think this collaboration will open a new avenue for research training for UIS undergraduates and advance an important scientific discovery that can change our understanding of tumor spread mechanisms,” she said.

Among the student researchers, UIS sophomore biology major Frankie Molitor shared how the project aligns with her goals to attend medical school and become an anesthesiologist. “This research has provided valuable hands-on experience with cell culture techniques, allowing me to gain skills that are essential in cell biology and research,” Molitor explained. “The work will help me understand how cellular signaling influences important processes like cell division and tumor suppression.”

Isabella Wade, a senior pre-med biology major at UIS who joined the project this semester, expressed excitement about the potential impact of their work. “Just knowing that we could make even a small contribution to fight this disease is a fulfilling opportunity,” she said.

The project receives support from the Caryl Towsley Moy, Ph.D., Endowed Fund for Collaborative Research, established by Moy’s family to honor her contributions at both UIS and SIU. This fund enables collaborative research efforts through a competitive selection process, fostering academic partnerships and advancing scientific discoveries.