NIH-funded research R21 grant

Targeting aging cells to improve treatment for pancreatic cancer

Official title: Targeting cellular senescense in pancreatic cancer

Funded at Translational Genomics Research Inst · NIH-11113721 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how getting rid of certain old cells in the body might help make pancreatic cancer treatments work better, and it’s inviting patients to join trials to see if this new method is safe and effective.

More Pancreatic Cancer research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTranslational Genomics Research Inst
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Phoenix, United States)
Project startFebruary 1, 2025
Project endJanuary 31, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$269,280
NIH project number1R21CA299593-01
Project IDNIH-11113721 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who are undergoing standard cancer treatments.

Less likely to help

Patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer or those not receiving standard therapies may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how targeting cellular senescence, a process where cells stop dividing, can affect pancreatic cancer treatment. It focuses on the role of senescent cells in creating a tumor-friendly environment that hinders effective therapy. By using a specific antibody to eliminate these senescent cells, the study aims to enhance the effectiveness of standard chemotherapy and immune therapies. Patients may be involved in trials to assess the safety and efficacy of this new approach.

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: Previous research has shown promise in targeting cellular senescence in other cancer types, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach for pancreatic cancer.

Where this research is happening

  • Translational Genomics Research Inst
    Phoenix, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Han, Haiyong — Translational Genomics Research Inst
  • Study coordinator: Han, Haiyong

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.