CCK‑B receptor and pancreatic cell changes that can lead to cancer
The CCK-B receptor signaling pathway as a driver of pancreatic cellular plasticity and carcinogenesis
This project looks at whether blocking the CCK‑B receptor with a drug helps injured pancreatic tissue heal, reduces scarring and inflammation, and may lower the chance of pancreatic cancer in adults with chronic pancreatitis or early lesions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgetown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11294196 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers are studying a receptor called CCK‑B that appears on pancreatic duct cells during chronic pancreatitis and early precancerous changes. They give a drug called proglumide that blocks CCK receptors and watch whether injured acinar cells recover their normal form more quickly, with less inflammation and scarring. The team examines treated tissues, cells, and animal models to see how the drug changes the pancreatic support cells, collagen deposition, and immune cell patterns. Those laboratory findings are aimed at identifying treatments that could stop precancerous changes from progressing to pancreatic cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with chronic pancreatitis or with early pancreatic precancerous lesions (PanINs) would be the most relevant candidates for this line of research.
Not a fit: People without pancreatic inflammation or those with very advanced metastatic pancreatic cancer are unlikely to see direct benefit from these early mechanistic studies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to treatments that help the pancreas recover after chronic inflammation, reduce fibrosis and abnormal immune responses, and lower the risk of progression to pancreatic cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical work in cells and animal models has shown that CCK‑receptor blockers like proglumide can speed recovery and reduce fibrosis, but testing in people is limited and this approach remains translational.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- Georgetown University — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Jill P — Georgetown University
- Study coordinator: Smith, Jill P
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 below.