Innovative radiation therapy for pancreatic cancer treatment
Official title: Project #2
Funded at Howard University · NIH-11011784 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to treat pancreatic cancer using a special type of radiation that targets tumors more effectively while protecting healthy tissue, and it combines this with immune-boosting treatments to help your body fight cancer better, all with the hope of improving survival and quality of life for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Howard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $228,920 |
| NIH project number | 1U54CA295337-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011784 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer who are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers other than pancreatic cancer may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach called FLASH radiotherapy, which aims to treat pancreatic cancer by delivering ultra-high doses of radiation to tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. The study explores the combination of FLASH radiotherapy with immunotherapy to enhance the immune response against both the targeted tumor and any metastatic tumors. By using smart radiotherapy biomaterials, the project seeks to improve the effectiveness and safety of this treatment method. The ultimate goal is to increase patient survival and quality of life with fewer side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and safer treatment option for patients with pancreatic cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results with FLASH radiotherapy, indicating its potential as a novel treatment approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Howard University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Akala, Emmanuel O — Howard University
- Study coordinator: Akala, Emmanuel O
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.