Targeting a specific enzyme to prevent and treat pancreatic cancer

Targeting NADPH Oxidase for Pancreatic Cancer Prevention and Therapy

NIH-funded research University of Texas El Paso · NIH-10913289

This study is looking at how certain enzymes might help trigger pancreatic cancer in people with conditions like pancreatitis or those who eat high-fat diets, and it aims to see if blocking these enzymes can help prevent or treat the cancer, with the possibility of involving patients in trials to test this approach.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas El Paso NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (El Paso, United States)
Project IDNIH-10913289 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of NADPH oxidases in the development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a deadly form of cancer. It explores how certain risk factors, like pancreatitis and high-fat diets, can activate mutant KRAS, a gene associated with cancer, through these enzymes. By inhibiting NADPH oxidases, the study aims to disrupt this activation process, potentially preventing or treating pancreatic cancer. Patients may be involved in trials assessing the effectiveness of this targeted approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for pancreatic cancer due to genetic factors or lifestyle choices, such as chronic pancreatitis or obesity.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who have already undergone extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new prevention and treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer, improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

El Paso, 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 Cancer CauseCancer EtiologyCancer GenesCancer TreatmentCancer-Promoting Gene
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.