A new metabolic pathway that helps pancreatic cancer spread
Official title: A novel, glutathione-dependent metabolic pathway drives metastatic outgrowth in pancreatic cancer
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10800437 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a certain process in the body affects the spread of pancreatic cancer, especially in its advanced stages, to find new ways to stop it from spreading while leaving the original tumor alone, which could help improve treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $485,558 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA279173-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10800437 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, particularly those with metastatic disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer that has not metastasized may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a specific metabolic pathway involving glutathione contributes to the spread of pancreatic cancer, particularly focusing on metastatic lesions. By analyzing gene expression in both primary tumors and metastases from mouse models, researchers have identified key factors that are crucial for the growth of metastatic cells. The study employs innovative techniques, including a functional soft-agar screen and validation in human specimens, to explore how these factors can be targeted to halt metastasis without affecting the primary tumors. This approach aims to uncover new diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target metastatic pancreatic cancer, improving survival rates for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mostoslavsky, Raul — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Mostoslavsky, Raul
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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.