Understanding aggressive non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
The Prognostic Significance and Mechanistic Determination of Chromatin Remodeling Biomarkers in Non-Functional Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor
This research looks for new ways to tell which non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PanNETs) might become aggressive.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11139419 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PanNETs) can be tricky because some grow slowly while others spread quickly. Current methods for predicting how these tumors will behave are not always accurate. This project aims to find better indicators, called biomarkers, by looking at specific changes in tumor cells, particularly in genes like ATRX and DAXX. We want to see if these changes can help doctors predict which tumors are more likely to spread, especially when looking at samples taken before surgery. This could help guide treatment decisions for patients with NF-PanNETs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, particularly those seeking better ways to understand their tumor's potential for aggressive growth, would be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients without non-functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more accurate predictions of tumor behavior, helping doctors choose the best treatment path for patients with NF-PanNETs.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has identified ATRX/DAXX changes as promising indicators, but they have not yet been tested in a forward-looking way or in early tumor samples.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singhi, Aatur Dilip — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Singhi, Aatur Dilip
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.