Investigating how certain cells contribute to pancreatic cancer development
Official title: The role of mesothelial-derived cancer-associated fibroblasts in the pathogenesis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10900899 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells from the lining of the pancreas might help pancreatic cancer grow and spread, with the hope of finding new ways to treat this tough disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $47,335 |
| NIH project number | 1F31CA284505-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900899 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma or those at high risk for developing this type of cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancer or those without pancreatic cancer risk factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of mesothelial-derived cancer-associated fibroblasts in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA), a highly lethal form of cancer. The study examines how these fibroblasts interact with immune and cancer cells, potentially influencing disease progression. Using mouse models, researchers will explore the origins and functions of these fibroblasts, particularly their ability to produce cytokines that may affect tumor behavior. The findings could provide insights into new therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that target the cellular interactions involved in pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts in various cancers, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for pancreatic cancer as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bischoff, Allison — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Bischoff, Allison
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Fibrin-rich tumor stroma as a new driver of immune response in pancreatic cancer
This grant explores how fibrin-involved tumor surroundings in pancreatic cancer might affect immune therapy, with the goal of making treatments work better for patients.
-
TREM2+ macrophages and liver metastases in pancreatic cancer
Researchers are studying immune cells in liver metastases from pancreatic cancer to understand how they influence the cancer’s spread and more effective treatments.
-
Protein S could slow pancreatic cancer and blood clots
A potential treatment study looks at restoring a natural blood protein, Protein S, to help people with pancreatic cancer by slowing tumor growth and reducing dangerous clots.
-
In vivo B7-H3 CAR-T cells for pancreatic cancer therapy
A patient-friendly look at a new approach that aims to produce CAR-T cells directly inside the body to target pancreatic cancer.
-
Metabolic changes in pancreatic cancer when treated with crisantaspase
Aims to understand how pancreatic cancer cells adapt their metabolism when treated with crisantaspase to inform better treatment strategies for patients.
-
New combination therapy for pancreatic cancer in animals
A new therapy designed to weaken the tumor’s protective surroundings and boost treatment effects in pancreatic cancer models.
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.