Investigating pancreatic cancer using patient-derived tumor models

Pancreatic cancer patient-derived xenograft tumors for translational studies in precision cancer medicine

['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11132057

This study is looking at a type of pancreatic cancer called PDAC to find better ways to treat it, especially the Classical subtype, by using special models that mimic real tumors from patients, so we can learn how these tumors respond to different treatments and hopefully improve care for people with this condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11132057 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) by utilizing patient-derived xenograft (PDX) tumor models to better understand the disease's subtypes and treatment responses. The study aims to develop experimental tools that accurately represent the clinical spectrum of PDAC, particularly the Classical subtype, which is often underrepresented in traditional cell lines. By analyzing how these tumors respond to standard and investigational therapies, the research seeks to identify molecular subtypes that could lead to more effective treatment strategies for patients. Advanced techniques such as spatial transcriptomic profiling and analysis of extracellular vesicles will be employed to gain deeper insights into tumor behavior and treatment efficacy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, particularly those with the Classical subtype.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of pancreatic cancer or those who do not have a confirmed diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective treatment options for patients with pancreatic cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using patient-derived xenograft models to study cancer treatment responses, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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 biomarkers, Cancer Cause, cancer cell, Cancer Etiology

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.