Understanding how a protein affects the early stages of pancreatic cancer
Official title: Defining novel functions of ATF4 in early stages of pancreatic cancer tumorigenesis
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10997147 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Atf4 affects the early changes in pancreatic cells that can lead to cancer, with the hope of finding new ways to detect and treat pancreatic cancer earlier for patients at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31CA287966-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997147 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for pancreatic cancer, including those with a family history or genetic predispositions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who are already undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Atf4 protein in the early development of pancreatic cancer, specifically focusing on how it influences the transformation of acinar cells into ductal cells, which is a critical step in cancer initiation. By using advanced experimental techniques, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) development, which could lead to earlier detection and new treatment options. Patients may benefit from insights gained regarding potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets that could improve outcomes for those at risk of pancreatic cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and more effective treatments for pancreatic cancer.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of Atf4 in pancreatic cancer is being explored for the first time, similar research has successfully identified critical factors in cancer development.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ziolkowski, Leah Marie — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Ziolkowski, Leah Marie
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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.