Investigating how cancer affects body weight and muscle loss
Core C – Immunophenotyping Core
This study is looking at how certain signals in the body cause weight loss and muscle loss in cancer patients, especially those with pancreatic cancer, to help find better ways to manage these issues and improve their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10898589 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding cachexia, a condition that causes severe weight loss and muscle wasting in cancer patients, particularly those with pancreatic cancer. The project aims to explore the role of specific signaling pathways in the body that contribute to this condition by using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and multispectral imaging. By analyzing both mouse models and patient samples, the research seeks to uncover how immune cells and other factors interact in the tumor environment to influence cachexia. The findings could lead to new insights into managing weight loss and improving the quality of life for cancer patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients, especially those diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are experiencing cachexia.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancer or those not experiencing significant weight loss or muscle wasting may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help prevent or reduce weight loss and muscle wasting in cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cachexia and its underlying mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Romeo, Martin John — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Romeo, Martin John
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.