Targeting a specific enzyme to improve treatment for pancreatic cancer
Official title: Project 3: Targeting Stress-induced MK2 as Novel Strategy in Pancreatic Cancer
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10916350 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to make chemotherapy work better for people with pancreatic cancer by blocking a specific enzyme that helps cancer cells resist treatment, and it's designed for patients whose cancer can't be surgically removed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 28, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $282,552 |
| NIH project number | 5P50CA272213-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916350 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with unresectable pancreatic cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with resectable pancreatic cancer or those who are not receiving chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to enhance the effectiveness of standard chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer patients. It focuses on the MK2 enzyme, which helps cancer cells resist treatment, and aims to block its activity to make chemotherapy more effective. The study will involve a phase 1 clinical trial to assess the safety and initial effectiveness of this strategy in patients who have pancreatic cancer that cannot be surgically removed. By understanding how to overcome the resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapy, the research hopes to improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for pancreatic cancer, potentially extending survival and improving quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways to enhance chemotherapy effectiveness, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lim, Kian H — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Lim, Kian H
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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.