Imaging cancer-associated fibroblasts in pancreatic cancer using a new PET tracer
Quantitative In Vivo 68Ga-Fibroblast-Activation-Protein-Inhibitors (FAPI)-46 PET Imaging of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDA)
This study is looking at a new way to see how certain cells in pancreatic cancer might affect treatment, using a special type of scan that helps doctors understand the cancer better, so they can create more personalized treatment plans for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10907717 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the understanding and treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) by using a novel PET imaging technique to visualize cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). The study employs a specific radiotracer, 68Ga-FAPI-46, which targets fibroblast activation protein (FAP) expressed by CAFs, allowing for noninvasive imaging of these cells in patients. By profiling the identity and function of CAFs in real-time, the research aims to enhance the clinical management of PDA and address significant barriers in treatment response and resistance. Patients will undergo PET scans to assess the presence and activity of CAFs, which could lead to more personalized treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are undergoing treatment or evaluation.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who do not have pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment strategies for patients with pancreatic cancer by providing insights into the tumor microenvironment.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results using similar imaging techniques to target tumor microenvironments, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goenka, Ajit Harishkumar — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Goenka, Ajit Harishkumar
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.