Investigating how precancerous lesions in the pancreas develop into cancer
Official title: Understanding initiation and progression of IPMNs in pancreatic cancer
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-10914760 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $194,400 |
| NIH project number | 5K22CA266747-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914760 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with diagnosed intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms or those at high risk for developing pancreatic cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer or those without any precancerous lesions may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Desai, Ridhdhi R — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Desai, Ridhdhi R
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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.