Investigating how precancerous lesions in the pancreas develop into cancer

Understanding initiation and progression of IPMNs in pancreatic cancer

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · DREXEL UNIVERSITY · NIH-10914760

This study is looking at how certain changes in genes can lead to the development of precursors to pancreatic cancer, using lab-grown cells that act like the pancreas, to help find better ways to diagnose and treat people at risk for this disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDREXEL UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10914760 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the initiation and progression of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs), which are precursors to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). By utilizing human embryonic stem cell-derived pancreatic progenitor cells, the study aims to create organoids that mimic the human pancreas to explore the genetic mutations involved in IPMN development. The research will analyze how specific mutations contribute to the growth and progression of these lesions, potentially leading to better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients at risk of pancreatic cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with diagnosed intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms or those at high risk for developing pancreatic cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer or those without any precancerous lesions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection and treatment options for patients with pancreatic cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using organoid models to study cancer progression, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Biology, Cancer Genes, Cancer Model

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.