Genetically-engineered bacteria to help treat pancreatic cancer
Official title: Genetically-engineered Bacteria Overcome Therapy Resistance
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10944514 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with tough pancreatic cancer by using specially modified bacteria that can target tumors and boost the effectiveness of current treatments, aiming to turn patients who aren't responding into ones who do.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $581,087 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA292860-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10944514 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who have not responded to standard treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer or those who are not diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on using genetically-engineered Bifidobacteria to target and treat metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a particularly challenging form of cancer. The approach involves reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages and enhancing T-cell activation to improve the effectiveness of existing therapies like radiotherapy and immunotherapy. By administering these bacteria systemically, the goal is to enhance tumor control and convert non-responding patients into responders. This innovative method leverages the bacteria's ability to specifically colonize tumor sites, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option that enhances the effectiveness of current therapies for pancreatic cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using microbial therapies for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in patient care.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weichselbaum, Ralph R — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Weichselbaum, Ralph R
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.