NIH-funded research R03 grant

Understanding how BARD1 and PLK1 interactions affect pancreatic cancer treatment

Official title: Elucidating the relevance of BARD1-PLK1 interaction in PDAC and response to therapy

Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-10888373 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein called BARD1 affects pancreatic cancer and its response to treatments, especially for patients with certain genetic changes, to find better ways to help those who have fewer treatment options.

More PDAC research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionThomas Jefferson University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project startJuly 14, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$78,000
NIH project number5R03CA283232-02
Project IDNIH-10888373 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, especially those with BRCA1/2 mutations or homologous recombination repair deficiencies.

Less likely to help

Patients with pancreatic cancer who do not have BRCA1/2 mutations or other related genetic deficiencies may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the BARD1 protein in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and how it interacts with PLK1 to influence treatment responses. By studying the effects of BARD1 on cancer cell behavior, particularly in tumors with specific genetic mutations like BRCA1/2, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets that could enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments. Patients with HRR deficient tumors may benefit from this approach, as the study seeks to improve treatment outcomes for those who currently have limited options.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for pancreatic cancer patients, particularly those with specific genetic profiles.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in other cancers, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach for pancreatic cancer.

Where this research is happening

  • Thomas Jefferson University
    Philadelphia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Jain, Aditi — Thomas Jefferson University
  • Study coordinator: Jain, Aditi

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.