Investigating how IL-6 signaling affects pancreatic cancer progression and cachexia
Project 3 – Stromal derived IL-6/STAT3 signaling in the development and progression of PDAC
This study is looking at how a specific signaling process in the body affects the growth of a tough type of pancreatic cancer and how it leads to serious weight loss and muscle loss in patients, with the goal of finding new ways to help improve treatment and quality of life for those affected.
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-10898573 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of IL-6 signaling in the development and progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly lethal cancer. It aims to explore how the tumor's microenvironment, particularly the interactions between cancer cells and surrounding tissues, contributes to severe weight loss and muscle wasting in patients, known as cachexia. By examining the mechanisms involved, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients suffering from this condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are experiencing symptoms of cachexia.
Not a fit: Patients with pancreatic cancer who are not experiencing cachexia or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that mitigate cachexia and improve survival rates for patients with pancreatic cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting tumor microenvironments in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach could yield significant insights and advancements.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ostrowski, Michael C. — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Ostrowski, Michael C.
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.