NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating the role of ECT2 in pancreatic cancer progression.

Official title: ECT2 Isoform Switch in Pancreatic Cancer.

Funded at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville · NIH-11034788 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how different versions of a gene called ECT2 might influence the growth of pancreatic cancer, and it needs patients to help by sharing tissue samples or information to find ways to detect the cancer earlier and develop new treatments.

More Pancreatic Cancer research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Jacksonville
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Jacksonville, United States)
Project startDecember 1, 2024
Project endNovember 30, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$219,491
NIH project number1R21CA296671-01
Project IDNIH-11034788 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma or those with precancerous pancreatic lesions.

Less likely to help

Patients with other types of cancer or those without pancreatic disease may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how different forms of the ECT2 gene contribute to the development and progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly aggressive cancer. The study will analyze the expression of two specific ECT2 mRNA variants in both precancerous lesions and tumors. By examining how these variants affect cancer cell behavior and patient survival, the research aims to identify potential biomarkers for early detection and new therapeutic targets. Patients may be involved in providing tissue samples or data to help elucidate the role of ECT2 in their cancer.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for pancreatic cancer patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar molecular pathways in other cancers, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
    Jacksonville, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Justilien, Verline — Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
  • Study coordinator: Justilien, Verline

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.