Investigating how a specific protein affects inflammation in the pancreas
Official title: Structure-based inhibition of chemokine signaling in the inflamed pancreas
Funded at Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11009554 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called CCL28 to see if blocking it can help reduce inflammation and improve treatments for people with chronic pancreatitis, which can sometimes lead to pancreatic cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | April 20, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $643,818 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK133247-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009554 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis or those at risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pancreatitis or those without any pancreatic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called CCL28 in chronic pancreatitis, a condition that can lead to pancreatic cancer. The researchers aim to discover small molecule inhibitors that can block the activity of CCL28, which is believed to contribute to inflammation and tumor growth by attracting certain immune cells. By using animal models and advanced drug discovery techniques, they will explore how inhibiting CCL28 can change the pancreatic environment and potentially improve the effectiveness of existing cancer treatments. This approach may lead to new therapeutic options for patients suffering from chronic pancreatitis and related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce inflammation in the pancreas and improve outcomes for patients with chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting chemokines for cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Volkman, Brian F — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Volkman, Brian F
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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.