Investigating ways to reverse weight loss caused by pancreatic cancer.
Molecular Imaging and Metabolotheranostics of PDAC-Induced Cachexia
This study is looking at ways to help people with pancreatic cancer who are experiencing severe weight loss by using special techniques to target and change how their bodies process certain nutrients, with the hope of improving their health and well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11167154 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding and reversing cachexia, a severe weight loss condition caused by pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The team will use advanced imaging techniques and specially designed nanoparticles that deliver small interfering RNA (siRNA) to target and disrupt glutamine metabolism, which is altered in patients with PDAC-induced cachexia. By studying the metabolic changes in the spleen and tumor environments, the researchers aim to develop effective treatments that can improve patient outcomes. This approach is based on preliminary findings that suggest targeting specific metabolic pathways can mitigate weight loss and improve immune response.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are experiencing significant weight loss and cachexia.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those not experiencing cachexia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve the quality of life and treatment responses for patients suffering from cancer-related cachexia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting metabolic pathways in cachexia, suggesting that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bhujwalla, Zaver M. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Bhujwalla, Zaver M.
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.