How RB activation affects pancreatic cancer and its environment
Official title: Impact of RB activation on the pancreatic cancer epigenome and tumor microenvironment
Funded at Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp · NIH-10884406 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein called retinoblastoma (RB) can help slow down the growth of pancreatic cancer and improve the way the immune system responds to it, with the hope of finding better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Buffalo, United States) |
| Project start | July 7, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $479,955 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA275081-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10884406 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, particularly those whose tumors exhibit deregulation of the RB pathway.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancer or those whose pancreatic tumors do not involve the RB pathway may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the retinoblastoma (RB) tumor suppressor in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a type of cancer known for its poor prognosis. The study aims to understand how activating RB can limit tumor growth and influence gene expression related to the cancer's characteristics and immune response. By using patient-derived models and advanced analyses, the researchers will explore the mechanisms by which RB activation can alter the tumor microenvironment and potentially improve treatment outcomes. This approach seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies that target the unique genetic features of PDAC.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for pancreatic cancer, improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting the RB pathway in pancreatic cancer is a relatively novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in other cancers, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp
Buffalo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Witkiewicz, Agnieszka — Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp
- Study coordinator: Witkiewicz, Agnieszka
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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.