Investigating how certain proteins affect muscle loss in cancer patients
Matricellular proteins of the CNN family as regulators of tumor-induced cachexia
This study is looking at how a protein made by pancreatic cancer cells might cause muscle loss in cancer patients, and it's testing whether blocking this protein could help improve health and treatment outcomes for those dealing with this issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10923797 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding cancer-associated cachexia, a condition where cancer patients involuntarily lose muscle mass, which can worsen their treatment outcomes and survival rates. The study examines the role of a specific protein, CCN2, produced by pancreatic cancer cells, in promoting this muscle loss. By using mouse models, researchers aim to determine how targeting this protein can potentially inhibit cachexia and improve patient health. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing cachexia in cancer patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients, particularly those diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are experiencing or at risk of cachexia.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cancer-related muscle loss or those not diagnosed with pancreatic cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective therapies that preserve or reverse muscle loss in cancer patients, improving their treatment tolerance and survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways for cachexia management, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Judge, Sarah M — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Judge, Sarah M
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.