Proteins called CCN/CTGF that may drive cancer-related muscle and weight loss
Matricellular proteins of the CNN family as regulators of tumor-induced cachexia
This work looks at whether blocking a tumor-made protein called CTGF can stop or reverse muscle and weight loss in people with pancreatic cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11176299 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The researchers focus on a protein called CTGF produced by pancreatic tumors that may trigger the muscle wasting known as cachexia. They will use laboratory and animal models to block CTGF genetically or with drugs and measure effects on muscle, fat, and blood signals tied to wasting. The team will compare how different ways of targeting CTGF change the course of cachexia while accounting for tumor growth. Their goal is to identify approaches that could be developed into treatments for patients in future clinical trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are experiencing or at high risk for tumor-related weight and muscle loss would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Patients whose weight loss is not caused by tumor-driven cachexia—or whose cancers do not produce CTGF—are unlikely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to treatments that prevent or reverse cancer-related muscle and weight loss and help patients tolerate cancer therapy better.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary animal studies from this group showed that blocking CTGF reduced cachexia in mouse models, but the approach remains experimental and unproven in people.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Judge, Sarah M — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Judge, Sarah 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.