Measuring energy production in pancreatic cancer cells

Quantitative Imaging of OXPHOS in Pancreatic Cancer

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10824274

This study is looking at how pancreatic cancer cells use energy to grow and how this might help us find new treatments for patients with pancreatic cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10824274 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how pancreatic cancer cells produce energy through a process called oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Using advanced imaging techniques, specifically positron emission tomography (PET), the study aims to quantify OXPHOS activity in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and its precursor lesions. By examining genetically engineered mouse models, researchers will explore the relationship between OXPHOS activity and cancer progression, as well as the effects of OXPHOS inhibitors on survival. This approach could provide insights into potential new treatments for patients with pancreatic cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma or those with high-risk precursor lesions.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those without pancreatic lesions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for pancreatic cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific application of PET imaging for OXPHOS in PDAC is novel, similar imaging techniques have shown promise in other cancer types.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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 Cancersneoplasm/cancerDisorderDisease
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.