How cancer cells adapt their metabolism to survive nutrient changes

Innovations and mechanisms in tumor subcellular metabolism

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11134802

This study looks at how pancreatic cancer cells change the way they use nutrients to survive when food is scarce, with the hope that understanding these changes can help develop better treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11134802 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how cancer cells, particularly those in pancreatic cancer, adapt their metabolism in response to fluctuations in nutrient availability. By studying the mechanisms of nutrient acquisition and metabolic rewiring, the research aims to uncover how malignant cells exploit their environment to survive and thrive in challenging conditions. The approach involves examining cellular processes and biochemical reactions that allow these cells to scavenge nutrients, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of cancer metabolism, which could lead to new treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer or other malignancies that exhibit metabolic adaptations.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose cancers do not involve significant metabolic adaptations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that target the metabolic adaptations of cancer cells, improving treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful advancements.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
Conditions Cancers
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.