Investigating how the AMPK pathway affects pancreatic cancer metabolism
Project 3: The AMPK Autophagy Pathway as a Metabolic Liability in Pancratic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
This study is looking at how a process called autophagy helps pancreatic cancer cells survive and resist treatment, with the goal of finding new ways to make existing therapies work better for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Salk Institute for Biological Studies NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10883568 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA), a highly aggressive cancer with limited treatment options. It explores the role of autophagy, a process where cells recycle components, in the tumor's ability to survive and resist therapies. By studying the AMPK pathway, which regulates autophagy, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes for patients. The approach includes biochemical analysis and potential development of specific inhibitors to enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are seeking new treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those who do not have pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve survival rates for patients with pancreatic cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting the AMPK pathway in pancreatic cancer is novel, there is accumulating evidence that targeting autophagy can be beneficial in cancer treatment.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, UNITED STATES
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shaw, Reuben — Salk Institute for Biological Studies
- Study coordinator: Shaw, Reuben
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.