Investigating how calcium signaling in mitochondria affects pancreatic cancer spread and growth
Mitochondrial calcium signaling in pancreatic cancer metastasis and progression
This study is looking at how calcium signals in tiny parts of cells called mitochondria affect the growth and spread of pancreatic cancer, with the hope of finding new ways to treat this disease that could help patients in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11054579 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of mitochondrial calcium signaling in the progression and spread of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). By studying how the Mitochondrial Calcium Uniporter (MCU) influences cancer cell migration and invasion, the researchers aim to identify new therapeutic targets. They will utilize advanced techniques such as RNA sequencing to explore the molecular mechanisms involved and assess potential vulnerabilities in cancer cells that could be exploited for treatment. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to novel therapies targeting metastatic pancreatic cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, particularly those with metastatic disease.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those with other types of cancer unrelated to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that specifically target the mechanisms driving pancreatic cancer metastasis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting calcium signaling pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights and advancements.
Where this research is happening
Hershey, United States
- Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr — Hershey, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Shengyu — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Yang, Shengyu
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.