Investigating how stress hormones affect heart changes in cancer-related weight loss

The role of adrenergic signaling in cancer cachexia-associated cardiac remodeling

NIH-funded research Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11004608

This study is looking at how cancer cachexia, a serious type of malnutrition that often happens with pancreatic cancer, affects the heart, and it aims to find new ways to help improve the heart health and overall well-being of patients dealing with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOregon Health & Science University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11004608 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how cancer cachexia, a severe form of malnutrition often seen in pancreatic cancer, affects the heart. It examines the role of the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's stress response, in causing harmful changes to heart structure and function during this condition. By exploring the mechanisms behind these changes, the research aims to identify potential targets for new treatments that could improve the quality of life for affected patients. The study will involve both laboratory models and observations from patients to gather comprehensive data.

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 cachexia due to conditions other than cancer or those without significant cardiac involvement may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that alleviate heart problems associated with cancer cachexia, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of the sympathetic nervous system in cardiac remodeling during cancer cachexia is not well-studied, related research has shown promising results in understanding cachexia and its effects on various organs.

Where this research is happening

Portland, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency SyndromeAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.