How a specific protein affects the immune response in pancreatic cancer

Impact of CREB-driven mechanism in shaping the tumor-immune landscape

NIH-funded research University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-10994144

This study is looking at how a protein called CREB affects pancreatic cancer and its ability to hide from the immune system, with the goal of finding ways to shrink tumors and make cancer treatments work better by boosting the body's immune response.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Coral Gables, United States)
Project IDNIH-10994144 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the cyclic AMP Response Element Binding protein (CREB) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a type of cancer known for its resistance to treatment. The study aims to understand how CREB influences the tumor microenvironment and immune response, particularly focusing on a cytokine called leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) that may help tumors evade immune detection. By inhibiting CREB, researchers hope to reduce tumor growth and enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy by reactivating T cells that fight cancer. The approach includes advanced sequencing techniques to analyze the interactions between tumor cells and immune cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who may benefit from novel immunotherapy approaches.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who do not have pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve survival rates for patients with pancreatic cancer by enhancing their immune response against tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in other cancers, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Coral Gables, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.