How the tumor nutrient environment makes pancreatic cancer resist chemotherapy
Targeting nutrient microenvironment imprinted therapy resistance in pancreatic cancer
Researchers will look for ways to make chemotherapy work better for people with pancreatic cancer by recreating and changing the tumor's nutrient environment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11294272 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team measured the actual nutrients present in pancreatic tumors and found the local mix is very different from blood or healthy tissue. They grow pancreatic cancer cells in the lab using the same mix of about 120 nutrients found in tumors to see how those conditions change responses to drugs. By comparing these models with patient tumor samples, they aim to identify molecular pathways (including BCL-XL related mechanisms) that let tumor cells survive treatment. They will test whether changing nutrient availability or targeting the pathways it activates can reverse drug resistance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with pancreatic adenocarcinoma who can donate tumor tissue or participate in studies at the University of Chicago would be most relevant.
Not a fit: People with other types of cancer or those seeking an immediate personal treatment benefit should not expect direct help from this lab-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new treatments or drug combinations that make chemotherapy more effective against pancreatic tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Mapping tumor nutrient levels and targeting cancer metabolism is a growing area with promising early findings, but applying those maps to reverse chemotherapy resistance is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Muir, Alexander — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Muir, Alexander
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.