NIH-funded research R01 grant

How fat tissue contributes to pancreatic cancer development

Official title: Contributions of the Adipose Tissue to the Development of Pancreatic Cancer

Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11031398 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how extra body fat might affect the growth of pancreatic cancer and how well patients do, using special mice to understand the links between obesity and cancer, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent and treat this disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project startFebruary 8, 2024
Project endJanuary 31, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$523,133
NIH project number5R01CA279707-02
Project IDNIH-11031398 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are obese and at risk for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not obese or do not have a risk of developing pancreatic cancer may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of adipose tissue in the development of pancreatic cancer, particularly focusing on how obesity influences tumor growth and patient survival. The study uses genetically engineered mouse models to explore the mechanisms by which obesity-related inflammation and metabolic changes promote cancer progression. By examining specific molecules like lipocalin 2 and fatty acids, the research aims to uncover potential pathways that could be targeted for better prevention and treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment options for pancreatic cancer patients, particularly those affected by obesity.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between obesity and pancreatic cancer, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

  • Ohio State University
    Columbus, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Cruz-Monserrate, Zobeida — Ohio State University
  • Study coordinator: Cruz-Monserrate, Zobeida

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.