How dietary fats influence the development of pancreatic cancer

Dietary fatty acids drive pancreatic cancer development

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-10885200

This study is looking at how different types of fats in our diets, especially oleic acid, might affect the growth of a serious type of pancreatic cancer, and it aims to help people understand how what they eat could influence their cancer risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-10885200 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between dietary fatty acids and the development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly lethal form of cancer. By using a controlled panel of high-fat diets that vary only in fat source, the study aims to understand how specific dietary fats, particularly oleic acid, contribute to tumor growth in the pancreas. The research employs genetic models that closely mimic human PDAC progression, allowing for insights that could translate to human health. Patients may benefit from findings that clarify dietary influences on cancer risk and progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a high risk of pancreatic cancer, particularly those with obesity or a history of high-fat diet consumption.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for pancreatic cancer or those with advanced stages of the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that help reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that dietary factors can influence cancer development, but this specific approach focusing on the effects of different dietary fats on pancreatic cancer is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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 Cancer CauseCancer EtiologyCancers
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.