Targeting cancer cell survival mechanisms in pancreatic cancer treatment

Targeting cell regulatory states to complement MEK/autophagy inhibition in pancreatic cancer

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11001532

This study is looking at new ways to treat pancreatic cancer by blocking certain pathways that help the cancer survive, with the hope of finding better treatments that can help patients feel better and live longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11001532 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates new treatment strategies for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a type of cancer known for its resistance to standard therapies. The approach focuses on inhibiting two key pathways, MEK and autophagy, which cancer cells use to survive. By understanding how these pathways interact and contribute to treatment resistance, the research aims to develop more effective therapies that could improve patient outcomes. The study will involve analyzing patient tumor samples and using advanced models to explore the cellular responses to these treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, particularly those who have not responded to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those whose pancreatic cancer is not characterized by KRAS mutations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with pancreatic cancer, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting MEK and autophagy pathways in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 anti-cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.