How pancreatic cancer cells adapt to nutrient-poor environments
Regulation and Function of Stromal Macropinocytosis in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
This study is looking at how pancreatic cancer cells manage to survive even when there aren't enough nutrients around, specifically by using a process that helps them take in important building blocks like amino acids, and it hopes to find new ways to make treatments more effective for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10911861 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells survive in nutrient-poor conditions by utilizing a process called macropinocytosis, which allows them to absorb amino acids from their surroundings. The study focuses on the role of glutamine, a crucial nutrient that PDAC tumors often lack, and how its scarcity can trigger increased macropinocytosis in both cancer cells and surrounding fibroblasts. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets that could disrupt this nutrient acquisition process, ultimately improving treatment outcomes for patients.
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 therapeutic approaches targeting nutrient acquisition.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those not diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that inhibit the nutrient uptake mechanisms of pancreatic cancer, potentially improving patient survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Commisso, Cosimo — Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
- Study coordinator: Commisso, Cosimo
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 below.