Targeting a process in cancer cells to improve treatment for a specific type of pancreatic cancer.
Project 1: Targeting autophagy for the treatment of KRAS-mutant PDAC
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-10911128
This study is looking at how certain pancreatic cancer cells survive and grow, and it’s testing a medication called hydroxychloroquine to see if it can help make other treatments work better for patients with this tough type of cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10911128 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cancer cells, particularly those with KRAS mutations in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), rely on a process called autophagy to survive and grow. The team is exploring the use of hydroxychloroquine, an autophagy inhibitor, in combination with other approved medications to enhance treatment effectiveness. By understanding how these cancer cells adapt their metabolism, the researchers aim to develop a more effective treatment strategy that could lead to better outcomes for patients with this aggressive cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with KRAS-mutant pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of pancreatic cancer or those without KRAS mutations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with KRAS-mutant pancreatic cancer, potentially increasing survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results using similar approaches to target autophagy in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL — CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DER, CHANNING J. — UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL
- Study coordinator: DER, CHANNING J.
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.