Targeting the stem-like cells that help pancreatic tumors grow
Targeting stem-like cells and their niche in pancreatic cancer
['FUNDING_R37'] · SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH · NIH-11303247
This project tries to block special stem-like cancer cells and the nearby tumor cells that support them to help people with pancreatic cancer respond better to treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11303247 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Pancreatic tumors contain diverse cell types, and a small set of stem-like cancer cells can survive chemotherapy and regrow the tumor. Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering are studying how nearby niche cells use signals (like Wnt, Porcupine, and DLL1) to maintain those stem-like cells. They will use patient tumor samples, lab-grown models, and preclinical tests to find ways to disrupt those supportive signals or force stem-like cells to become less aggressive. The team aims to identify targets that could be combined with current therapies to reduce recurrence and improve outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, especially those with advanced or treatment-resistant disease, are the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without pancreatic cancer or those whose tumors do not rely on these stem-like programs are unlikely to benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that make chemotherapy more effective and lower the chance of pancreatic tumors coming back.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory and animal studies targeting cancer stem cells and Wnt signaling have shown promising results, but these approaches have not yet been proven effective in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TAMMELA, TUOMAS — SLOAN-KETTERING INST CAN RESEARCH
- Study coordinator: TAMMELA, TUOMAS
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 below.
Conditions: Anti-Cancer Agents, Cancer Drug