NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding and treating pancreatic cancer in veterans

Official title: BLR&D Research Career Scientist Award Application

Funded at Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center · NIH-11176619 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking into pancreatic cancer, which affects veterans more than others, to understand how it develops and why it can be hard to treat, while also working on new therapies just for veterans to help them feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMichael E Debakey VA Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2025
Project endMarch 31, 2030
Funding year2025
NIH project number1IK6BX007143-01
Project IDNIH-11176619 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are veterans diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma or those at high risk for developing this cancer.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have pancreatic cancer or are not veterans may not receive any benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a type of cancer that has a higher incidence in veterans compared to the general population. The project aims to uncover the mechanisms behind PDAC development and treatment resistance, while also developing new therapies specifically for veterans. Key areas of investigation include the roles of certain proteins and microRNAs in cancer progression, as well as innovative immunotherapy strategies. The research is conducted at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, which enhances the local research environment and aims to improve patient outcomes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for pancreatic cancer in veterans, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in similar approaches to understanding and treating pancreatic cancer, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

  • Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center
    Houston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Yao, Qizhi C. — Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Yao, Qizhi C.

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.