How pancreatic tumor cell structure affects tumor metabolism
Intersection of cytoskeletal regulation with tumor cell metabolism
['FUNDING_R01'] · MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER · NIH-11175483
This project looks at how a protein called Vav1 helps pancreatic cancer cells use the nutrient glutamine to fuel invasion and growth.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11175483 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This work focuses on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma tumors that express a protein called Vav1. In lab-grown pancreatic cancer cells, researchers will study how Vav1 changes the enzyme glutaminase (GLS1) to convert glutamine into glutamate and how that fuels cell movement and growth. They will also examine how secreted glutamate and inflammatory signals help tumors invade nearby tissues. The goal is to connect a cell-structure regulator to tumor metabolism to find new ways to block metastasis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, especially those whose tumors express Vav1, or patients willing to donate tumor samples for research.
Not a fit: People without pancreatic cancer or whose tumors do not involve Vav1-driven metabolism are unlikely to see direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could point to new drug targets that block tumor metabolism or Vav1-driven invasion, which might slow metastasis and improve survival for people with pancreatic cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Other preclinical studies show targeting glutamine metabolism can slow cancer growth, but tying Vav1-driven cytoskeletal signaling to metabolism is a newer, less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RAZIDLO, GINA LYNN — MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER
- Study coordinator: RAZIDLO, GINA LYNN
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.
Conditions: Cancers