# The Role of SPON1 Expressing Inflammatory Monocytes in Promoting Lung Cancer Metastasis.

> **NIH NIH F30** · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · 2021 · $37,543

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., accounting for 142,670 deaths in 2019.
Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is a major subtype of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC). Inflammatory
monocyte (IM) infiltration in LUSC is associated with higher mortality. Using LUSC mouse models developed in
our lab, we found that CCL2-mediated recruitment of IMs is necessary and sufficient for LUSC metastasis.
Preliminary RNA-seq data from our LUSC mouse models identify Spon1 upregulation in tumor bearing IMs
compared to IMs from healthy mice. Spon1 is an axonal guidance molecule for the developing nervous system.
Thus, I propose that neuronal axons are recruited into the tumor by IMs. Studies in prostate cancer have
demonstrated that patients with increased innervation have increased cancer growth and metastasis and poor
prognosis. While studies have shown worse prognosis with increased nerve recruitment, the mechanisms of
recruitment are unclear. Given that Spon1 is associated with tissue remodeling and innervation, and that tumor
neurogenesis mediates metastasis through neuronal axons, we hypothesize that (i) IMs release SPON1 into the
TME and (ii) SPON1 drives LUSC metastasis through the recruitment of neuronal axons to the tumor. I propose
to test this hypothesis through the following aims: 1.) Determine the role of SPON1+ IMs on recruitment of axons
into the TME. 2.) Determine the role of SPON1+ IMs have on LUSC tumor progression and metastasis. This
project will create an important intersection between two valuable disciplines to study how IMs, a component of
the immune system, may be recruiting neuronal axons into the tumor to drive LUSC metastasis and disease
progression. This understanding will then lend way for the development of targeted therapeutics against SPON1,
IMs or specific classes of neurons within the tumor. This project has the potential to create a meaningful impact
for patients by opening the door to multiple therapeutic targets. Furthermore, I believe this project and my
comprehensive training plan will prepare me for a successful career by starting me on the F-to-K-to-R pipeline
of an independently funded physician-scientist.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10150459
- **Project number:** 5F30CA250189-02
- **Recipient organization:** UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL
- **Principal Investigator:** Nisitha Sengottuvel
- **Activity code:** F30 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $37,543
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2020-04-01 → 2025-03-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10150459

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10150459, The Role of SPON1 Expressing Inflammatory Monocytes in Promoting Lung Cancer Metastasis. (5F30CA250189-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10150459. Licensed CC0.

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