Posttranslational regulation of macropinocytosis in pancreatic cancer
Funded at Purdue University · NIH-11401163 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This research looks at how pancreatic cancer cells use macropinocytosis and specific signaling to survive and grow, with the aim of finding new ways to slow down or stop the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project start | August 28, 2025 |
| Project end | July 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $457,503 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA295946-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11401163 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma or those at risk, whose tumors exhibit KRAS-driven metabolic vulnerabilities and rely on macropinocytosis for nutrient acquisition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose tumors do not depend on macropinocytosis or KRAS-driven signaling may not benefit from these findings.
What this research studies
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma often presents at an advanced stage and resists treatment. The study explores how cancer cells survive by taking in nutrients through macropinocytosis, a process linked to KRAS signaling and metabolic dependence on glutamine. It investigates the role of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) in regulating this pathway and how it affects tumor growth and aggressiveness. The project uses cellular and possibly animal models to uncover signaling mechanisms that could be targeted to hinder PDAC progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could identify new targets to disrupt nutrient uptake in pancreatic cancer, potentially slowing tumor growth and improving therapeutic options for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Past studies have shown that inhibiting macropinocytosis can reduce tumor growth in vivo, supporting the plausibility of this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Purdue University
West Lafayette, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Allen-Petersen, Brittany — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Allen-Petersen, Brittany
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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.