Targeting a specific receptor to fight pancreatic cancer spread
Official title: Targeting pancreatic cancer metastases with Targefrin
Funded at Armida Labs, INC. · NIH-10763331 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new treatment for metastatic pancreatic cancer that targets a specific protein on cancer cells to help stop their spread and improve chemotherapy, and it’s looking for patients who want to try this promising approach.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Armida Labs, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | September 14, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $400,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R43CA277917-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10763331 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer who have not responded well to existing treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer or those who do not express the EphA2 receptor may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on a novel treatment strategy for metastatic pancreatic cancer by targeting the EphA2 receptor, which is highly present on cancer cells. The approach involves using a newly developed agent that not only inhibits the movement and invasion of these cancer cells but also promotes the degradation of the receptor. By doing so, the research aims to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy by selectively delivering it to pancreatic tumors. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in trials that assess the safety and efficacy of this innovative treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting cancer cell receptors for treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Armida Labs, INC.
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baggio, Carlo — Armida Labs, INC.
- Study coordinator: Baggio, Carlo
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Exosome-based microRNA biomarkers for early detection of pancreatic cancer
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-
Targeting how platelets and pancreatic cancer talk to each other
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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.